Is your sketchbook the safe place that everyone suggests that it is? For me, I would have to say sometimes. Other times I have sketchbook envy. 🙂
Even after all these years, I am not a natural sketchbooker. And that is my primary art making activity these days. I am filling boxes and boxes of handmade sketchbooks with all sorts of bindings and marks.
I have so many that I can see trends and periods of focus. I am finding this looking back and noticing to be informative.
I have noticed:
- how I have tried many bindings and found one that works for me
- a reminder of classes I took and techniques that I have tried
- that over time the sketchbook has become a safer place to play with mark making
At one time, I made hard cover books that seemed too precious to use for a sketchbook practice. Many of them are still unused.
I also have a sense of urgency to complete a sketchbook. And when I do finish it, I like to hold it and look through the pages. Â I have been filling a sketchbook about once a month. They are 6″ x 6″ pages and 84 in a book.
Things that make my sketchbook feel like a safe place:
- don’t share it with others
- know that I can collage over that ugly page
- try new things without much expectation
- look back at old sketchbooks and be impressed
If you would like to fill some sketchbook pages with abstract forests, then checkout the featured class, Torn Trees. It is on sale for the month of March, was $75. now only $50.
12 lessons, 17 videos and lots of fun!