As a very young child I discovered sketching and drawing. Whenever my mother was tired of having me underfoot she would seat me at the large, oak dining table with paper, crayons and pencils and say “Why don’t you take some time and draw something for me?”. What a blessing that was! I don’t think she realized the true gift of discovery she had bestowed upon me. I have seen life through an artist’s viewpoint ever since.
You can too! Regardless of your age, you already have the skills wired into your human psyche. So many people though, never learn to tap into them or even realize they possess them. So, through Mini-Workshops, Social Media and this blog, I share that revelation by setting an example and by helping people tap into the wonderful, satisfying and mindful world of observing life through an artist’s eye.
I hope you tap in, whether through my help or the many other resources available online and in books. It is a part of yourself you will enjoy cultivating as you journey through life.
“You can observe a lot just by watching” — Yogi Berra
Took a bicycle ride to a favorite coffee shop with my sketchbook and tools. Quickly and loosely sketched out part of this shrub, intending only to capture its character rather than get into any detail. It was fun and therapeutic. It’s been a while since I last posted and the aim is to stick to sketching while I’m out and about to simply have some fun.
More to come. Spring, Summer and Fall is the time to do them!
It is so wonderful to see you this morning! Enjoy sketching in the morning and coffee! Perfect combo!
I hope you are doing well. I wanted to reach out and check on you! Enjoy your summer and keep your sketch pad close!
I agree with everything you’re saying, Linda!
Hi Linda!
Thanks for the comment 🙂. I’m riding my bicycle each day looking for stuff to sketch lol! Also painting a few of those little ACEO oil landscapes for eBay. It’s so nice to have great weather after such a gloomy winter. I’ll be posting more sketches as the seasons progress. You are much appreciated!
I’m glad you posted again, Don. I enjoy seeing your work. In the Spring of 2015 I took a watercolor sketching class from you at the art store in GJ (don’t remember the name). I was your only student that day and I learned a lot!! I did a lot of sketching after that and also took a watercolor class in Steamboat Springs where I live. But I haven’t done any watercolor sketching in a while. I’m at Steamboat Lake with my husband this weekend, so I’m inspired to do something. You’re an excellent artist and teacher and if/when you ever do another class, either in person or online, I’d be interested!!!
Thanks so much for your comments Karen. I very much appreciate them. I’m glad you’re inspired to sketch while at the lake. It’s a beautiful day for it!
I’ll be sure to mention it here on the blog if I get inspired to have another workshop. I’m glad you learned during our one-on-one workshop we did back when the art supply store was open. I’ve always admired how artists like John Singer Sargent were so single-minded in their interest of creating art. I know I have to push myself sometimes and don’t always do the kind of work I would like when I do. But, I read that Mr. Sargent didn’t think his watercolors were very good either. We artists, pro, amateur or hobbyist, are artists just the same and a little different I reckon 🙂.
Don West
Love this! I love your drawings! Thank you for sharing with the world your rare gift and talent that God gave you. It part of your life story❤️
Thanks so much Denise.I appreciate you and your comments🙂.
Good to see your sketch today Don! Keep going. I read all the comments and you have many people who are inspired, including myself.
Thanks for the encouragement Melody! Much appreciated 👍. You keep going too!