"Sometimes the questions are complicated and the answers are simple."

This quote comes from the wonderful Dr. Seuss. I think it's an interesting thought and a unique way to tackle problems, so I though I'd share :)

I was wishing I had more to post on here, but pieces of art do take me a while, especially with the rest of my busy life! So, I realized that a lot of my favorite works I do are in my sketchbook. I also just got a new sketchbook that I LOVE. It's nothing really special, but it's spiral bound with nice big, crisp, clean, white pages. What could be better? :) When I want a break, I love to just sketch, and I decided I would share some! I experiment with techniques, references, and reflect on them (which is sometimes annoying, but I've learned that it's an important part of growing as an artist).

Speaking of the importance of sketchbooks, every artist must have one! Actually, I think everyone in general could benefit from keeping one, but that's a bit of a stretch... It's more than a place to draw. You don't have to be pressured to make a perfect piece of artwork every time you pick up a pencil. You can create and experiment, and more importantly journal your thoughts about your work, your day, or your life. In IB, we have learned to do lots of research as well, which really helps you grow as an artist. I research everything from movements in art history, specific artists, techniques, mediums, photography, and more! Other people can provide lots of info for you to steal :) A summary of an IB sketchbook? The three R's: Research, aRt, and Reflection! Try it. Go to Michael's (one of my favorite stores) and pick out a sketchbook. Buy some pencils, markers, charcoal, or whatever floats your boat. I promise it will be good for you :)

This is a picture I printed from sodahead.com (it's important to cite your research and references!). I did the pencil drawing first, which I think turned out pretty, but not too exciting. Then I thought of the color idea. I sketched it in pencil first and then colored the marker over top. It reminds me of Andy Warhol, one of my favorite influences, and his bold but minimalist style. I like the color choices of the soft pink and the bright blue. I think if I did it again I would make the eyebrow less thick or less dark because I think it takes away some of the soft feminine look of the picture.

I printed this picture from free-extras.com. I have heard that a mark of a true artist is the ability to draw hands. It sounds ridiculous, but they are actually quite tough to get accurate. They have some crazy proportions going on. I did this in charcoal and was quite happy with the way it turned out, but I definitely need some more practice to perfect my "hand drawing"! I'll keep you updated :)

Enjoy sketching! I know I will!

-Sarah