All my finished paintings start out as a sketch, sometimes a quickly rendered idea, other times a detailed black and white value study. The above images illustrate how a graphite or charcoal sketch can flesh out the initial idea, determine composition and values. Sketching from live models and nature is an imperative practise for the dedicated artist, like regular practise on an instrument for a musician. Sketching hones the artists abservation skills, it always amazes me what people dont see. Sometimes the sketch turns out more expressive and compelling than the finished painting, I usually include the initial sketch with the sold painting.
On a different note the Whatcom Artist Studio Tour is kicking into gear again, happening the first two weekends in October 2023. I know it’s only early May but the group shows are starting with the first one opening this weekend, May 6 and 7, at Chuckanut Bay Gallery on Chuckanut Drive, just south of Fairhaven. Nancy offered her exquisite spacial expertise along with other WAST participants in hanging the exhibit, so I have it on good authority that the show will be a real visual treat. Other group WAST shows will be held at Allied Arts, Dakota Art, Whatcom Museum and Jansen Art Center coming up later this summer. We have 60 Studios participating in this 29th year of the Studio Tour, it promises to be a good art year in this corner of the Great Pacific Northwest, Hope to see you out and about savouring the creative energy of our vibrant community.
The Above image is my contribution to the Chuckanut Bay Gallery show opening this weekend.
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