Learning by Doing

Sketch of houseplant (Start 1/30)

I'm already thinking about what projects I'd like to take on in the new year. One has really got my interest and so I've started. I'd really like to make 30-50 sketches or "starts" from life.

In Alla Prima, Richard Schmid lists about 6 ways that you can start a painting. He advocates that you should know how to do them all, as the demands of each painting differ and so the best starting practices differ. As I apply that to colored pencils, I can think of about 4 or 5 ways to begin a drawing. Two of those ways I'm really practiced at, the others not so much. So, my idea is to repeatedly try out the 3 remaining ways to see what I can learn.

These would all just be starts, the point is to learn. So, I am not going to demand that I finish each one. In addition, I would like to work more from life than I have had been of late. So, I'm going to ask myself to do them all from life. I hope this will force me to get out the door and into the local parks and gathering places.

The above sketch is my first start - on a day when I couldn't get out, I drew a plant from my kitchen. I definitely enjoyed trying to apply what I've been reading, although I felt very much like a kid feels when they are first learning to ride a bike - wild and out of control!

 

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My Closest Neighbor

My Closest Neighbor
5in x 7in
colored pencil on paper
copyright 2012 Rose Welty
SOLD

When you come to my house, this sight will probably greet you. This bird and it's family live closer to us than any other neighbors - they have taken up residence right outside the front door in a holly bush. They guard the basketball hoop as if we pay them - they are often squawking away on it. They are unafraid of letting you know that you have disturbed their nap time.

Yes, we have a family of mockingbirds in our yard. Despite the fact that they are "black and white" in a very colorful setting, I do find them a beautiful bird. They are very quick and rather brave in how they dart about staking their claim.

Just A Glance

Just A Glance
5in x 7in
colored pencil on paper
copyright Rose Welty
SOLD

American Robins are quite plentiful around where I live. They are some of the first birds you see as winter slips away and spring edges closer. I love their beautiful golden breasts and dark gray heads - a lovely combination. They are quick - you only get a glance before they take off.



Also a shout out to Ann Thompson Nemcosky - I was a part of her daffodil challenge over the weekend. Ann does some lovely work and has been a good friend over the years. We met through our blogs but really got to know each other better studying a color project together. Check her out!

Keeping An Eye

Keeping An Eye
5in x 7in
colored pencil on colored paper
copyright Rose Welty
click to buy

When I was out photographing flowers the other day, I turned away from the tulips and was startled by this cardinal standing behind me. He didn't tell me what he thought of my photography, but he did allow me to grab a few quick shots before he scampered off.

This piece was done on Stonehenge "Fawn" paper. It's a "tan" sort of color - the paper shows through in several areas.

"Keeping an Eye" is available for sale at Daily Paintworks. It will come to you matted to 8in x 10in, as below:

matted "Keeping An Eye", copyright Rose Welty