Clio, the Muse of History WIP

I’m moving in a new direction with this drawing, and not focus so much detail or the photo-realistic approach used for Ronald.  I’m not giving up on my detailed approach but trying to see what else can be accomplished by focusing on form and composition.  I hope this drawing is successful in conveying more emotion or interest.

Clio, the Muse of History WIP

I took this photo in Gettysburg last month for the upcoming Gettysburg Festival plein air event.  There are a few areas I normally go to in Gettysburg to draw and paint but I have a tendency to always stay close to my comfort zone or the familiar places.  This particular morning I came out with the intentions of taking photos, no sketch pad, no paint, just my camera on a beautiful day. 

Initially some of my photographs were okay but I wasn’t getting the perfect picture or the “that’s it moment” until the end of the morning. 

I thought I should take a few photos of the monuments that mean so much to us.  I am glad I took the time to really get out of my normal mind set and enjoy the landscape.  Clio sits fairly high on Slocum Ave in Gettysburg.  A frontal picture wasn’t too appealing since it didn’t show exactly what she was doing, but from her right side were very interesting angles.  It was amazing especially not knowing at the time the angles were going to work so well together. 

Below is a link to the monument.

123^rd New York Infantry Regiment.  

WIP Update

I’m sorry, I should have posted an update earlier in the week, but I have been a little busy this week and although I have completed this drawing I’ll still show my progress and hopefully a final post tomorrow.

At this stage his shirt and all of the elements of the drawing are completed.  The biggest problem I had with his shirt and coat was trying to get an overall shape (value & form) and a transition from his shirt into his coat.  The texture in his coat was extremely inviting but I opted to skimp and use general texture.  I know I will look at this and regret taking a short cut and should have put in the time to do a better job.

Up to this point, I’ve never used an HB pencil in my drawings and have only used 2H & 2B pencils thinking I could get as good of a value range without it.  I guess hind sight is 20/20.  I’m growing as an artist and coming to accept I should use more tools and techniques.

WIP 2

I initially thought his face would have been slightly easier to capture but there is a slight angle in his face.  I hope I captured his emotions in this phase.  Now it’s time to move into his shoulders.  Can I say he’s done at this stage (no neck and shoulders, just a head)?  Just kidding onward I go.

WIP

I’m finally at a point in my work I can take a break and get back to a few pieces I have been waiting to start.  The reference photo is very detailed and has a lot of textures. 

I was initially drawn to the photo for the opportunity to capture a good likeness of this man, but it was his face and emotions that really tells a story.  If I can capture his likeness and emotions then it was well worth it.