Sketchbook Diving
August 8, 2010
by dave
Filed under Artwork, Dave Posts
Spending years staring at computer screens for 10+ hours a day can do all sorts of things to you. Aside from gently frying your eyeballs, you may also develop a hankering to get back to the traditional side of drawing. Digital can be great for all sorts of stuff, but lately I’ve really missed pens and pencils. As a result I’ve been trying to make a point to stay active with the sketchbook and tend to bring it around with me. It can be a bit awkward at times, especially during those romantic times with my wife, but I’m gradually learning to adapt.
For sketching I tend to go for the tools that feel right at the time: Ballpoint, Pitt pens, brush pens, col-erase pencils, etc. I’m going to try and put a post together that covers some of the madness pretty soon. I’m always up for new tools, so if you guys are using anything fun, hit me up!
I feel you on this… something just gets lost in digital, no matter how good of a tablet you’ve got. nice post.
very nice.
I’ve been into china markers for life drawing of late. Forces you to focus on the gesture, but doesn’t dirty up your pocket like charcoal!
yeah, china markers are great!
Hey man,
i can totally relate to that too. what i usually use is a mix of some of the stuff you’re using, plus a lot of
*watercolor – i know it’s usually used only for coloring or for more elaborated work, but why not try it out whenever you have some more time? oh, and good paper, of course. not something to carry around, though.
*coal – pretty cool effects, goes well on any paper, and i carry it around all the time. as long as you have the spray, of course.
*coffee powder + water – a little crazy, i know… but since you said you’re up for new tools (i know it’s not really a tool, but anyways), i’ve tried it a couple times, and it works pretty well for shades and stuff. it also gives you a great “antique” effect.
that’s it for now. i’m also always up for new tools and ideas.
oh, great post, by the way.
Most of your traditional stuff is black and white (with bits of color) maybe you could try experimenting more with traditional methods of coloring too? I love my Copic markers, but they’re kind of expensive. They blend really well and the brush tips make some really nice gradients.
Hey Dave, great post as always!
Some times I just like what I call the random grab… instead of going for the pro
tools, if an idea pops up wherever I am I try to grab what is close around…
” how creative can I be with a orange bullet tip Crayola marker and a left over
christmas note pad”…
I’m using pitt brush pens and copic markers in my sketchbook. I have also used Crayola crayons for texture.
I always have fun with coffee washes, and then render in whatever remnants I have sitting in my art supplies, which usually is marker, colored pencil, brush pen, watercolor, gouache, etc.
Nice traditional post! I still need to get around to ordering the new sketchbook from you guys…
Its not new but Ive just got into Alchemy Art. I love drawing in big gestures and no undos. The simplicity of the program really makes you consider what youre doing before you mark.
These are all great suggestions – thanks guys! Keep ‘em coming!
I’m actually using this image as an artist reference for a self portrait assignment at my art school.
It’s a digital illustration paper, but we have to try and recreate a traditional media feel to the image. So far it’s going ok… Not sure if you will benefit from it but once I upload it to my blog I could list a few methods I tried to sustain the traditional feel?
Mostly experimentation with PS brushes though…. Anyway, fantastic pic and your proportions are still friggen’ stellar.
C’mon guys
Every Sunday I tune in for some more fresh images and lately its kinda been every 4th or 5th Sunday… if Im lucky.
What can i say…I love your stuff, but that fresh every Sunday label has simply gotta go!
We’re trying Anton, we’re really REALLY trying.
love you!