Tag: shell

Sketches on a Hot, Lazy Afternoon

It’s over 90 F / 32 C today, muggy, and to do more than move around, even with air conditioning (which is not on at present), requires more energy than I want to spend. So, sitting at my computer, I decided to find pictures of things to draw.

My choice was carbon ink in a fine nib pen with a flexible point and the tan, toned paper I have been using for gouache. I get to sit still, cruise for a subject, and then scribble on smooth paper with a responsive pen. If you use pen and ink, you will know the pleasure it provides!

Above are my sketches. One piece of paper, both sides. Tan toned paper by Strathmore. I really like this paper.

I don’t think there is more to say other than it has been a very pleasant afternoon scribbling away. Each sketch is done freehand, no pencil prelims under the ink. Shapes and shadows and direction were all attempted to be expressed simply through the ink, hatching, dots, lines, etc.

Strathmore multi-media tan paper, 11 x 14, Platinum Carbon Ink.

WWM #30: Wild Things

Today, when I was trying to figure out Wild Things for #WorldWatercolorMonth2019, I was really in a sourpuss mood.  I had to cancel a photo shoot with a friend and was not happy about it.  When you are tired and don’t feel well . . . you are absolutely crabby!  Hermity.  Crabby.  Hermit crab.  (How is that for subtle?)

I didn’t feel patient, and I didn’t feel capable of anything with a bit of subtlety.  I needed containment.  I wanted my shell.  I wanted limits and boundaries.  I wanted to feel safe.  Lines are perfect for that!  And as I have not done a line-and-wash watercolor for a month now, today I indulged.

And lets face it – hermit crabs are downright cute and fun with all their different colors and shells and homes.  Seeing them always makes me laugh – don’t know why, but they are such a delight.  And, as a result of this drawing, I, too, am in a much nicer mood!