Brayers are a key tool for printmakers. So I did a couple of quick drawings of my brayers on index cards.

Then today I picked two of the drawings and made copies of them, increasing and reducing the size.

As you can see in the sketch in the middle above, I overlapped and combined several of the copies to create an interesting composition.

So this is one way to get more from one littles sketch. Use your copier or computer to manipulate the size and combine to create a new design.

And then I used the combined drawing as a matrix for a couple of trace monoprints. I think that I will make a couple more and add some watercolor to them like I did in the little abstract drawing at the end.

If you would like to get more from your drawings, then check out the online class, SEE – draw – Print.

Class starts soon. It is a 3 day class designed to get you drawing and printing right away.

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Not all drawing needs to be with a pen and paper. Today I was inspired by one of Matisse’s cut out figures.

Matisse’s light blue figure looks so feminine and still very strong or powerful. I was not as easy as you might think.

Later in the day, I glued the cut-a-way pieces to a card to create even more strong female figures. This additive approach was easier for me to do than the cut away.

I think shape is one of the first things we learn when we start to draw. It can be stimulating to circle back to the basics and explore the basic elements of design like shape, line and value in isolated projects.

The Challenge

Cut and play with simple shapes to convey your message. See if you can capture it’s essence in the shape. You could:

• Simplify a figurative image of your own
• Copy a master like Matisse and then go in your own direction
• Keep it easy and fun

If you want to explore with the support of an online class then check out the current workshops that are being offered.

Yesterday, I got lost on Pinterest looking for inspiration. Be careful! Pinterest can eat up an afternoon.

I added lots of inspiration to several of my boards:

• Printmaking Inspirations
• Art on Paper

My inspiration went in an unexpected direction. I was drawn into abstract prints with just a few shapes.

So I decided to do some sketches inspired by prints from some masters.

I was hoping to learn what it was that appealed to me. By copying a master art work, I can learn about things like division of space, composition and line.

I felt like I gained permission to play with just a few simple shapes to create a compelling piece of artwork. And these sketches could be a jumping off place.

I noticed in this print by Otto Freundich how the lines varied in width and how all the shapes are different sizes. This create dynamic interest. It keeps me looking at the print.

I decided to play with just 3 shapes and make a few watercolor sketches. I was fun! Boundaries and limits can be a catalyst for new ideas.

I am really excited about the upcoming class that I am offering, SEE – draw – Print. I have be drawing and trace monoprinting a lot in the last few days.

I have been wanting to draw the steeples of my hometown and finally did a couple yesterday.

Then I did a trace monoprint of one and added a little bit of watercolor.

If you want to explore you drawing skills and create some trace monoprints then join us in the online printmaking class, SEE – draw – print. Class starts soon. Check out the details on the workshop page.

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Sometimes it can be hard to decide what to draw. Then other times you can have so many ideas that you get overwhelmed and fail to begin.

One way to move through these barriers is to:

• Set criticism aside and
• Just start with one subject or idea and
• Let go of the need for perfection

Some barriers/conversations/criticisms that go through my head are:

• This is too hard
• This is too easy
• This has been done before
• I might not be able to do a good drawing
• I might waste good paper
• This is boring
• How will I use this in a piece of art
• This is not real
• I should not draw based on photo
• I can draw from imagination
• I will be judged by others
• I don’t have time

Wow!

That is a lot of negative talk and I have not even started drawing. You may have similar types of barriers to beginning a new drawing or piece of art.

Don’t listen to them!

The key for me to bust through the vocal barriers is to:

• Just start drawing something
• Even if I only have a couple of minutes and
• Not analyze the drawing.

That is hard! Because for me drawing is about:

• Looking
• Assessing, measuring, guessing and
• Making decisions
• Converting those decisions to marks on paper.

The one assessment that I try too avoid is good or bad – worthiness. If I can set that one aside, I can usually get a lot done and end up with pleasing results.

But this all takes time, and willingness to have plenty of  drawings that never become more that practice or warm up pieces.

5 things to draw

1. Jars, cups and vessels
2. A flower
3. Self portait
4. Stuff on your table
5. Fruit or veggies

Would you like to grow your drawing skills? Would you like to have some support and guidance developing your drawing skills?

Then join us in the SEE Draw Print online art workshop. This is a 3 day class to jumpstart your drawing habits and introduce you to trace monoprinting. READ the details on the workshop page and register today.

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• How is your art practice going?
• Do you find time to make stuff?
• Do you see a progression?
• Does it feed your soul?
• Is it a daily habit?
• Do you have the support that you want to develop new skills?

When I am in the thick of “should do” projects I often do not see the benefits of certain habits. For example, last fall I took a sketching class and had a habit of drawing little snippets of my day.

• The cars in the a parking lot when I was waiting for my nephews to be released from school.
• The lifeguard station at the beach and happy time at the beach.
• The view from my 4th floor window, where I no longer live.

I did enjoy the class and the drawing process, but it was still something I had to nudge myself to do. My critical voice often stopped me.

Now 6 months later, I look at the little sketches and I am amazed at the strong memories they evoke. I can remember the days and how I was feeling with a bit of joy and satisfaction.

Hmmm? Who would have thought?

• Then I wonder why did I stop drawing?
• What got in the way?
• Is there something I can do to get the habit back?

One thing that I know is different is that the class ended and I did not have the community support.  I know I get more accomplished when I am part of a class or community.

The powerful feelings of pride and satisfaction that this little sketchbook has motivated me to start sketching again. I would never have believed that a little sketchbook could generate such strong and happy memories.

You have to try it!

Put a pen and sketchbook in your bag and pull it out when you find yourself waiting.

Magic could happen.

Hate to draw or lack confidence in your drawing skills?  CLICK over to this FREE confidence boosting drawing exercise.