At the start of this course, the initial plan was to sketch 5 to 7 times a week. Although there were times when I struggled to sketch so often, this project has certainly given me the opportunity to sketch very regularly.
I have taken advantage of my journey to and from work to draw. However, at some point, I felt that the exercise had become a bit repetitive. On the other hand, because people keep moving, it has encouraged me to capture a pose in a few lines.
When I tried to draw characters from imagination, I lacked confidence, so I decided to spend some time to learn more about the human anatomy. I found a few websites that offered online life drawing classes, and I also followed a course on Udemy (How to Draw – Anatomy and Figure Drawing). It has been very beneficial. Because I feel more confident when I draw a pose, my characters look more dynamic.
I have experimented with fine liners or brush pens and watercolour and tried different techniques. I have learned a lot from watching videos where artists explain how they use watercolour to add some colour to their sketches. I was particularly inspired when I watched a video where Paul Cox demonstrates how he uses watercolour.
I obtain better results when I do not worry about the outcome. I try to work fast as it means that I have to be more loose with lines and the way I apply paint. I still work a lot with photos when I use watercolour as I find it more difficult to use paint on location.
I have experimented a bit with colour paper. I would like to work more with that type of paper, as it is a good exercise to improve contrast by focussing on highlights and shadows.
I also created some sketches on location, drew sometimes objects at home although I did not enjoy this as much, paused TV programmes and drew what was on the screen.
During the process, I sometimes had some doubts as I did not know if I could see any progress. I wondered if I should focus on one practice rather than another. In retrospect, I now realise that sketching regularly has helped me to improve my confidence and developed my observing skills.
The various exercises have complemented each other. Learning more about the human anatomy has made it easier for me to sketch people in motion for instance.
I have noticed that I tend to return to certain subjects, especially people and buildings with intricate details.
I would like to keep the habit of sketching regularly. I know that the best way to keep this habit is to make it as easy as possible. One thing that seems to work for me is to decide in advance what I am going to draw, even if I end up drawing something else. Otherwise, I can end up hesitating a lot and loose momentum.
Catherine Roux Degree in Illustration 