I'm still quite amazed that I made it to day 50 of my crazy challenge! Today is officially day 53 and I have a couple of drawings still to post, but I feel pretty optimistic that I will make it to Day 100.
During this time I have drawn portraits that I love and frankly, ones that I don't love - at all! I want to be honest with you, I had a very difficult time sharing these, but felt it was such an important part of this process.
The four portraits below are a few that I don't "love". But, I would like to think that each one has a lesson for me and they are leading me to more successful drawings.
I'm learning to embrace these drawings, because I feel they are an integral part of who I am and as an artist.. They are equally as important as the ones I find successful. Both should be celebrated as they are the guides in this journey (does that sound corny?)
Below is the drawing I did on Day 50, black and white charcoal with a touch of white pastel on toned paper. I love the direction this drawing took along with the ones that follow.
Not everything we create is going to work and I'm now a bit more comfortable with this fact, and I know it is a part of my growth as an artist. I wouldn't be honest if I didn't say I struggle drawing most of the time. However, I feel that my voice as an artist is becoming more clear to me now.
I now believe that focusing on a subject, drawing it over and over helps to move you towards creating from a place of authenticity. If you're like me and searching to find your voice, your style, and to feel inspired, then draw! Drawing will lead you to color and painting and maybe more. Your voice as an artist will be revealed with daily practice.
I'm not where I want to be yet and I don't know if I ever will be. But, I do feel that half-way through this project, I'm moving into a new place of creativity and confidence. At this moment I know what I want to create and to me just knowing is a big deal.
Keeping to simple materials, like charcoal, has freed me as well. While a few of my portraits have included color, I keep going back to the simplicity and beauty of charcoal. I love how it moves across the paper and when I'm really lucky, a beautiful face will emerge.
The simple act of drawing holds so much promise!
In celebration of completing 50 portraits, and to thank all of you who have been cheering me on, I want to give away a Limited Edition print of one of my portraits.
Leave a comment below about what works for you in your creative process and your name will go into the drawing. Share this and your name goes in twice.