Drawing from Life ~ Figuratively speaking!
Most people in the art world would agree that drawing from life, literally, is the best way to learn how to draw. Studying 3 dimensional objects up close can only help one’s drawing abilities improve. Working from a two dimensional photograph just isn’t the same but sometimes it's a necessity. Drawing from life, figuratively speaking, can be even more beneficial!
Motivation, positivity, inspiration and energy, all are needed to be productive in life, but sometimes it can be hard to come by, especially in the art world.
I am lucky and have a spouse, Jen, who is a very positive person. She believes in my work, sometimes more than I do. She always has words of wisdom and encouragement. As much as she helps me, sometimes I have to build on her positivity. Many artists struggle to get into a creative, and therefore, productive mindset, including me.
What gets me there??? Sometimes, it’s from hearing that my work touched someone. Sometimes, it’s being touched by others.
This morning I watched numerous videos of a tremendous musical talent, Ramin Karimloo, who performs on Broadway and has starred in Phantom and Les Mis. Jen had mentioned that she had done the same, and that she had seen something special in him. Sure enough, I felt the same way. He has a spark to him, he shines when he is performing. I watched video after video, song after song, and it was motivating!
The same thing happens to me when I view other artists' work that I admire. Seeing my cousin Brian’s Vermont landscapes had the same effect on me. Going to the Norman Rockwell Museum a number of years ago was energizing. A trip to the Phillips Collection in Washington, DC, this summer, sent me home with all kinds of inspiration.
Pencil drawing by William R. Beebe, 1980
Today, I’m going to open my studio windows and let the fresh air in, turn on some good music, and work on my Great Blue Heron painting. Appreciating all that’s good, blocking out the bad, and enjoy being in the moment.
Now, it’s time to pick up the paintbrush! Thanks as always for following my art, my photography, and my journal!
“One of the joys of being an artist is having the freedom to follow my passion...”
What's next?
Drawing by William R. Beebe