sketching simple subjects - paintbrushes
Your task grasshopper, should you wish to take it, is to sketch your paintbrushes. They can be simply laid out in a row - look at Jim Dine's beautiful etching http://www.tfaoi.com/am/12am/12am38.jpg . He also did a fantastic etching of a row of cans with large paintbrushes standing in them that I'd love to own. (any rich sugar daddies out there take note ;>) )
I often get the total beginners in my classes to sketch paintbrushes - they can be put right next the drawing area so it's easier to do the hand-eye coordination bit and build observational skills. Gaining confidence in achieving the shape and texture of the brushes - making the hair look like hair and the metal look shiny and reflective etc is excellent practice. I find them really interesting to draw and often doodle them if the class are occupied and need no help. The ones above were then used for the title pages on my main and sketching websites, though at the time I sketched them I was just doing them for their own sake, they interested me.
If you feel like having a go please leave a link in the comments to your blog post with the sketch you've done - the one I like best will win one of my paintbrush sketches.
Anyone want to have a go? Timescale? the end of June? to give people time?
please remember the book is out for those blissfully unaware! preview it on http://www.blurb.com/bookstore/detail/218005/?utm_source=badge&utm_medium=banner&utm_content=140x240
UPDATE:
links to those posting their sketches/paintings of paintbrushes
Mr Zip http://tinyurl.com/5oplnu
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Comments
http://tinyurl.com/5oplnu
I agree, Jim Dine's brushes are superb. I'd have that on my wall in a heartbeat if I had any money :)
I have a pot of brushes, some of which go back to my near beginnings in art. Yes, I'm a hoarder. I'll have to dig them out and see what I come up with.
MrZip - your paintbrush is great! and an interesting blog too :>)
Jeanette I look forward to seeing your brushes with character :>)
I'll let you know when they are done.
Anyway, I've posted my effort on my blog, but still can't work out how to insert a link :(
Perhaps you should make these challenges a weekly or monthly event, Vivien. It's been fun.
Robyn's brush
http://asketchintime.blogspot.com/2008/04/brush-project.html
Laura that's so true. When I first started doing landscape plein air with friends (before my degree) we'd drive around looking for a 'view' - until we realised that you make the view yourself - just stop, look around and there will be something to focus on.
Thanks for the idea!