Hello friend,
How to use your eyes
I wanted to share a thought: Art is all about showing up daily and creating work, right? While that is partly true—practice helps you progress—I firmly believe in the power of observation. By carefully observing and studying a subject, you can learn its qualities, shapes, and intricate details. When you gather this information, you are better equipped to make decisions about how to depict it.
So, if you spend this month just observing, you are already making solid progress.
When we want to draw something like a cat, we often rush to sketch it immediately. We know a cat has two ears, four legs, and a tail. But what truly makes that cat a cat, and what makes it a specific cat that can only be created by you? Sometimes, we might draw something in a certain way, not due to a lack of skill but because we don’t fully understand how to portray it. Take, for example, the challenging legs of a horse, which I tend to avoid, or the details of a cactus.
Different views makes for fresh artworks
If we first take the time to observe and learn about colours, composition, texture, materials, and more, we can convert that knowledge into skill. We can also choose to consciously omit certain aspects or depict them differently—not because we can’t, but because doing so can strengthen our art and tell a better story. In our art club this month, we will delve into this topic, and I’ll introduce you to various exercises to enhance your observation skills.
What are some things you do to improve your art? Let me know in the comments!
Want to join us next month for a drawing session?
I have some lovely ones in store! Our live sessions in February are:
🌸🙃🌹🪻Upside Down Botanicals - Thursday 13th of February at 20:00 (8PM) CEST Let’s turn things upside down to challenge ourselves and really look at shapes and forms!
SIGN UP HERE
🐞🌼🌳🐝 Under The Surface - Tuesday 18th of February at 20:00 (8PM) CEST A session with wonderful co-host
where we dive under the surface and see what nature is like in hibernation or under the groundSIGN UP HERE
Please use this time zone converter to find the times in your area: www.worldtimebuddy.com
Missed our meetings or videos?
No worries, (paid) members can catch up with the videos below.
Monthly Nature Palette
If you have been following me for a while, you may remember that I used to share monthly floral palettes in my art club. I create these palettes by observing my surroundings and collecting photos of petals and leaves from nature. At home, I then compile a palette, occasionally finding new materials to complement it. Moving forward, I will showcase a new palette each month to inspire you. Feel free to use it and tag me if you create something with it!
January is often a time of hibernation and then awakening in the Netherlands. The days can be dark, but the first flowers emerge, bringing bursts of colour. Then, in February, nature begins to stir with the appearance of tiny leaves and buds. It’s a moment of new beginnings and new life. For me, February truly feels like the start of the year.
Lovelies
- s video on How To Paint Rich Beautiful Darks. Love all of her videos and she always makes me want to paint. Right. Now.
Going to the movies with my family, loved Wicked
This sketchbook by Lisa Congdon, it looks deceivingly simple, but it’s so powerful!
Looking inside the studios of other artists - the Country Living UK YouTube has great videos, loved this one about Sarah Rickard
Share this post