Creating new habits

Every so often my subject matter changes. I am usually drawn to:

  • Trees
  • Leaves and weeds
  • Text and fonts
  • Birds

However, I often will do a quick contour line self portrait.

self portrait

But recently I have wanted to develop a loose line portrait style. So I have been playing in 4 sketchbooks and creating some sketches with varying degrees of satisfaction.

scribbly face drawings

I am looking online and tried the Sktchy Museum app that has all kinds of portraits that I can use as reference. But they did not mean much to me and so I was not very interested in the drawing.

stylized portrait

I also noticed that my subjects often have a sad expression. I looked closer at eyes and mouths to see what is involved in producing a happier expression. I am still learning.

contour line drawing

So I searched my own photos and found some family members that I plan to use as a photo reference for my next set of sketches. I have more interest in these subjects, so hopefully I will want to put a little more effort into the drawing.

pencil sketch

I am hoping that:

  • My seeing skills become stronger
  • My hand and eye become more coordinated
  • I learn ways to stylize elements of the portrait
  • I have fun doing it!

If you are looking for an online art class check out the self-studies that I am offering.