From Dots to Lines

I'm continuing my study of drawing by going to the next lesson in the Creative Drawing book by Rottger/Klante which was published in 1963.

Obviously, these ideas are what I need at this moment in time. Interesting how these gifts can appear when you really need them.

Fabric postcards

For more than 20 years I have gone to the annual Retreat sponsored by Friends of Calligraphy which is based in San Francisco. The gathering is held at Dominican University in San Rafael, CA where all the meals are served and we each have our own room. We do our art in a large hall and have quiet times while we are working. Over the years keepsakes have been made by participants to give to each member. So, last year I made 32 individual postcards of fabric that I then quilted. Yes, I did mail them and they all were received before the Retreat. 

The above cards have a variety of techniques from painting on raw silk and on fine silk, discharge (using bleach to pull out the color), weaving, applique and use of commercial ribbon. Each card is then quilted. Oh yes, I sent them without my name to see how many would guess who sent the gift. 

I know that I said it was a calligraphy group, but over the years we have seen bookmaking, origami, lettering, photography, sewing, journaling and so much more. March is the next Retreat and I look forward to seeing friends. I really feel that artists have lived isolated lives and this group allows us to interact. Of course, the internet has broadened our world, but personal interaction is special. This years keepsake is a secret until after the Retreat.

I did it!

The encouragement from this group has prompted me to join a figure drawing class. 

Friday I was able to attend a group that has many talented participants. Most important is that I took the first step. Dang, that foreshortening concept is tough. The next day I started a new watercolor class and, wham-o, did I learn a lot! Oh boy, this is fun.

My goal this year is to think more about me. Hey, my sons are adults and my husband is quite happy-especially when the weather is good for a round of golf. I've been blessed to do my art over the years, but I "mothered". Not this year. Worry free art.

Last of the exercises

This is the last exercise in the dot study. Interesting how easy it is to create shadow or depth. Hopefully this study will help me with my "regular" sketching. Finishing this page helped me settle a bit after a fight with my new Adobe Elements program and Kodak Gallery. I can only take technical challenges for so long, then I just walk away. Peace with a pen and some paper.

 

Following the dots

 

 

After I posted the last previous Hotel picture, a present of an old book was given to me. CREATIVE DRAWING Point and Line by Rottger and Klante which was published in 1963. These are a couple of exercises that were suggested by the authors. There is so much more and I plan to continue this study.

 

It's funny, I always shied away from this type of work. I found, however, that it can be very meditative.