Exploration

Title: Exploration

Medium: Digital drawing using colored pencil techniques

Dimensions: 16 inches (W) x 20 inches (H), unmatted/unframed

Insight: This portrait was completed on my iPad Pro using my favorite software: Procreate. I have found that with this software and my custom programed brushes I can create a blend of traditional colored pencil techniques with the versatility of the digital software’s color pallets and layering.

This drawing was meant as a relaxing pastime, however I ended up struggling immensely when I reached the tree branch. I ended up setting the drawing aside for several weeks and it was doomed to be incomplete. I don’t know what inspired me to pull it from the archives and tackle the branch again, but I am glad that I did. It took me several hours, but I am happy with what I learned from it and where it ended.

As always, I began this piece with the eyes. This allows me to bring life and energy into the animal from the beginning. When that life is captured it becomes as if I am revealing the animal rather than attempting to construct it from nothing.