I did some sketches of Quince blossoms in graphite and watercolor and in ink and watercolor last April, and had in mind to do the fruit this fall. I forgot about it until after we had picked most of the fruit off the tree, but fortunately there were a few left up high where we couldn’t reach. This is my rendering of a couple of those lonely fellows!
It was interesting to me to look back at last spring’s work, because I remember feeling frustrated and at loose ends at that point. I lacked direction and didn’t know what tools suited me best or what style to develop. Although I am still at the beginning of my artistic journey, by comparison I can see that I have made some progress! For instance I am more confident with watercolors now. I realize that I really like doing a quick sketch with pencil as a basis for my watercolors. Also, I discovered that my sketching pen of choice is the Lamy Safari, with gray ink. The softer ink color doesn’t overwhelm my watercolors as much as black does.
This sketch is watercolor over a quick pencil sketch. The writing is with a fountain pen (not the Lamy) with chestnut colored ink. Oh, in case you are interested, quinces are quite astringent, and barely edible. They do make good jelly though.
This blog is about my journey as a botanical artist--what I am learning, what inspires me and what I am currently drawing or painting. My desire is to continually hone my skills to better express my wonder and gratitude for the beauty of the creation around me in the Pacific Northwest (USA).
It’s a lovely little study! Will you be making jelly? nancy
Beautifully done!
Outstanding details! =) Really soft touches and well defined lines, it’s simply an impressive piece.
Nancy, Thanks! I made jelly in past years but I was the only one who liked it so I am not too motivated to go to all of the trouble anymore. We pick the fruit off while it is small because it is a very old tree and gets too weighed down otherwise.
Thanks for visiting, Sandy and Alex.
Love leaves nerves. Very well done, Janene!
Beautiful. You are so precise – great skills for botanical drawings.
This is really beautiful ! Your info on the tools you used was most interesting ..
Very beautiful, and a wonderful composition! I love the subdued colors and the leaves have such character!
I really have got to purchase that Lexington Grey ink – love my Lamy, but black is just not subtle!
Anais, Thanks but I am not sure I understand.
Shirley, Interesting observation. I may have an announcement about that soon.
Winna and Dan, Thanks, both of you! I have become a big fan of Noodler’s Lexington Gray.
A lovely piece of work and very interesting about the grey ink, I’d like to try that!
I think you are gaining confidence in what you do, one of those moments when you feel you’ve turned a corner!
I now I’m a few days out of date but happy bloggaversary!!! I always enjoy reading your blog, I’m sorry I don’t comments as much as I would like to – this is purely a time thing and not because I don’t think your blog deserves a comment. Anyway – many happy returns!
Lovely study Janene, I’m glad they were left on the tree for you to paint.
That’s lovely! I’m not familiar with quinces so this post is not only pretty but also informative.
Thanks Cathy, Lesley, Sue and Lynn!
This is really beautiful. I love the simplicity:)