Sketchbook practice

 I spotted a picture of a young woman, and took her as an example for my exercise in my sketchbook. I chose a page which I had already prepared with an acrylic base, and started drawing with a black aquarel pencil. She was looking downwards so her nose was rather long and she had her eyes closed.

When I start I often think: Oh this is too difficult... I cannot do it. But for me just starting helps, especially when you use a light sketchy touch to your pencil so you can correct dimensions and shapes, until you find that it might actually work. This way the drawing turned out better than I thought. Also the acylic underground gives somes structure, and of course soft undertone, which I like.

I'd say: take out a piece of paper and begin!

Back from the Alps

 Two weeks hiking and relaxing in the Alps has given me enough rest and inspiration to return to work and creating. I always bring a sketchbook and notebook with me, for the moments of ideas. But often I just enjoy being outside and reading a book. I have not finished the one on Picasso and Gilot yet...

I am hoping to return to the charcoal portraits which I have been enjoying. This is another one I made, you can already find it in my Etsy-shop:

In August I am always helping out on an event, so time will be spent on that too.

Francoise Gilot

 This week I'll probably finish this book on a Life with Picasso. Francoise Gilot, his partner, writes all about it. And I find it interesting to read about his process and focus in painting and creating. 

Picasso also has been working with, or inspiring, co-artists, and it tells about his daily life meeting them. 

Summer vibes

The summer is in full swing, school holidays have started and hopefully we all be at a slower pace. These poppies and pansies cards reflect the summer feeling for me. I drew them with watercolour and colourpencils, and made them into oblong cards.

Wishing you a good week!

 

100 makers

 Last week I was present on a Maker's market, with 100 makers! In the gardens of the castle we had a lovely day with nice weather, lots of enthusiastic visitors and makers. In a relaxed atmosphere people were strolling along and enjoying a day out.

This garden is only a 100 meters away from my studio, and I have been drawing here now and then. Friends from the village came by, so it was a good day.

Bikeride

The summer days are perfect for making a bikeride, and in June there are so many flowers along the roadside. These yellow buttercups were shining bright.

Hope you have a nice week as well!

 

Preparation

 Saturday July 5th, I will be present on a Maker's market by The Creative Collective. In the garden of Castle Sypesteyn stalls of 100 maker's will be together to present and sell their work. I am looking forward to it :). The garden is beautiful with large trees and shade, and makes an excellent place for this. 

I will bring my cards, small artworks and portraits and handmade accessories.

Welcome to drop by, open 12-18 hours, for more info see the link.