Peak at my Sketchbook
The sketchbook is a private affair for many artists. It is a place where the inner ideas take physical form and are never seen by the glaring eyes of others. My sketchbook is rarely a place for finished pieces. It is rather a location to explore the paintings and sculptures that surface over and over in my head. Without a place to take physical form, the art occupies space in the endless pathways of the mind. Artwork needs a place to stretch and grow. The sketchbook acts as a release of creativity while simultaneously conjuring new ideas.
Deciding to share a glimpse of my artwork hidden within the pages of my sketchbook is both intimidating and expected. People want to to know the workings of the artist’s mind, and a well worn sketchbook is the gateway.
Most of my sketchbook looks like this. Paint left over from an afternoon of painting. The colors make a wonderful background for whatever I want to explore next. At times the color combinations are so beautiful, and I don’t want to put anything on top of them. They are a small piece of art within themselves.
Collage is a harder medium to conquer than one would think. My attempt to play with the art form resulted in a slurry of paint, paper scraps, pen, pastels. When there is no desired outcome, the artwork is free to become whatever it desires. The intuitive nature of play is rewarding and the best results just happen.
One of the pages in my sketchbook was covered in a patchwork of colors, but I didn’t have a clue what to do with it. One day I put masking fluid down and painted over it with the same colors. The florals emerged from my brush, and once I removed the masking fluid the painting came to life. Using masking fluid should be incorporated more into my work.
Having a black paper sketchbook is an entirely different experience. I mostly use wax pastels in these sketchbooks. The color transforms, and blends in surprising ways. If you don’t have a black paper sketchbook, you should purchase one.
Although the peak into my sketchbook was short, I hope you enjoyed it.
Amanda
