As a self-taught artist, I learn from many sources. I can credit my progress thus far to continuous learning. One of the practical things I’ve done to help me practice what I learn is to develop a daily sketchbook practice. I believe that practice brings progress and sketching is an easy way to practice different concepts, flesh out ideas without any pressure and just have fun.
I must confess that I haven’t done as great a job of sketching this year, as I did last year. However, I haven’t totally given up on it. I still sketch whenever I get the chance.
Recently, when I visited the Mattatuck Museum, I was reminded of why as an artist, you need to continuously sketch. Dmitri Wright whose work was on display during my visit inspired me in many ways, not just by his art but also by his writings.
In his book, “My Dancing Brush: Insights and Reflections on How to be an Impressionist”, he writes this.
“I believe sketching is the gateway to artistic fulfillment”
Just think about that!!! I have thought about it for many weeks and I’m still thinking about it. After my return from the museum, I decided to go back to my sketchbooks and flip through the sketches I’ve made. I couldn’t deny how much progress I’ve made over my period of sketching.
Why I Chose to Practice Sketching in Public
I knew without a shadow of a doubt that I needed to keep sketching. It doesn’t have to be complicated compositions. Simply doodling is enough. To help me keep up with my sketching, I posted some of my sketch pages on my website. That way, I’ll be practicing in public. This will make me sketch more since I’ll need to continually update my virtual sketchbook for those who are interested in seeing my sketches
Sketching comes with a lot of advantages for textile artists. In order to sketch, you don’t need to set up your sewing machine or change threads, or all the other host of things we need to do before we sew. You just grab your sketchbook (or piece of paper) and pen and you’re sketching. You can sketch anywhere and at any time.
“Sketching is the first stage of thinking and feeling as an artist. It costs little in time, space and resources.” ~ Dmitri Wright
As you look through my virtual sketchbook, I hope that you are also encouraged to start a sketchbook practice. Because the creative who makes progress is the one who practices.
“Most often when artists suffer a creative block, it is because they have stopped sketching.” ~ Dmitri Wright.
If you’d like to start sketching, here are 5 simple ways to get you started.
Your Turn
Do you practice in a sketchbook? Why or Why not? Share your experiences?
Warmest Regards,
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