This January we honour the sketchbook. Read on for great tips for staying motivated and filling them up!
A fresh start to the New Year begs for a fresh new sketchbook. A new book speaks of the unlimited potential and of great things yet to be discovered and recorded. There is a sequence in each book to prove it. A sketchbook is a quiet companion. It does not judge. It collects. The benefit of keeping sketchbooks is documenting the progress of skill and confidence.
5 tips for getting started on your sketchbook journey
1 Inspiration will set you on a solid path
Get ideas from artists’ sketchbooks to see the diversity of materials and themes. Come see the collection of sketchbooks on display in our Artisan Nook. We put a call out for artists to share their sketchbooks; nearly a dozen artists responded. Each book is a visual adventure and inspiration. On display, sketchbooks of every format, size, condition, and purpose afford insights into how artists conceptualize and pursue imagery – or how we just doodle! What Can’t You Do with a Sketchbook!?! runs January 5 – February 17, 2015. Featured artists: Patrick Byers, Ryn Climenhaga, Catharine Compston, Michael Conforti, Lori Gerrits, Russell Joly, Chris Jugo, Crimson La Vey, Gordon Ramsey, Vincent Roche, and Dave Thomas.
2 Just do it!
For example, if you want to get good at drawing figures it takes practice, observation, and more practice. By popular demand, Life Drawing on Tuesday evenings with Jordan Pearson is back in February. Space is limited so register quickly
3 Make it fun!
Turn your sketchbook into a Visual Journal. Not sure where to start? Spend a few hours in a weekend retreat with Nadia Munarolo-Kurjata. She has a wealth of creative ideas for filling a page. Would you like to improve your lettering style in your journal? LynnAnn Babuk will demonstrate foundational calligraphy in a 3-class series.
4 No drawing required, try something different with your sketchbook
Not confident in your drawing skills? You can learn to build imagery using collages. We are offering two workshops for beginners: Carol Collin presents Mixed Media Collage: I Matter and Rosann Whale presents SoulCollage™.
5 Start with drawing basics
Line, shape, tone, and perspective are easily learned in another weekend retreat, Drawing Academy with Wanda Benterud.
Watch for our next blog: Top 10 Products for Sketchbooks and Visual Journals
Kim Fjordbotten (January 2015) As the owner of The Paint Spot, Kim Fjordbotten is passionate about helping artists use materials and make art. She is available as a speaker and educator for teachers and art associations. The Paint Spot offers exhibitions, workshops, and beautiful art materials to inspire your creativity.