Sketchbook exchanges can be a source of inspiration, encouragement and sharing ideas, in other words, building artistic community. At least that is the experience of a group I belong to, Oregon Botanical Artists, an Artists Circle under the auspices of the American Society of Botanical Artists. We are on our third sketchbook exchange, and […]
A Sketching Short Cut
January 25, 2017 by · 14 Comments
Sketching helps me be more aware of not only the natural world, but of the urban scenes that surround me every day. For some reason, when I sketch something, I am forever bonded to it. I find that worries drop away as I forget everything but the scene or plant in front of me. Besides […]
Sketchbook–Garry Oak
August 25, 2016 by · 5 Comments
I live near a west facing bluff where our native oak, Quercus garryana, grows. They thrive on sunny, well-drained slopes. I enjoy looking into their craggy canopies as I walk along the top of the bluff. I’ve wanted to sketch one of these impressive trees for awhile, so decided that this months’ entry for the […]
Sketching (part 2)
July 29, 2013 by · 6 Comments
I think of sketching as a way to ‘keep in shape’ artistically. After all, drawing is a skill like playing an instrument–the more you do it the better you will be at it. Sketching might be compared to improvisational jazz, whereas botanical art is akin to classical music. Although they both have a rich history […]
Sketching (part 1)
July 22, 2013 by · 2 Comments
Since sketching is one of my favorite things to do, it seems strange that sometimes it is a struggle to make time for it. I have found that I have to be intentional in order to get myself to keep at it. Since I’ve heard others complain of the same struggle, I thought I would […]
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).