Just (Barely) Time for a Sketch and a Promise

conte crayons on paper

I apologize, faithful readers, for my absence. We all hit those times in life and I look so forward to next week when I believe the dust will settle somewhat. In the meantime, a sketch aux trois crayon from my trusty Letterman sketchbook and a promise that I'm working my way back as quickly as possible.

Letterman Sketch, Aux Trois Crayon

Conte crayons on paper

Reruns. Is it possible that I find even the Letterman reruns to be entertaining? Perhaps it's because I'm always drawing while watching. Yes, that's it. It actually takes me two times through the show to get it all. Makes perfect sense. I've been adding colors to my painting palette lately which I think has it's good and bad points. However, getting back to just the three used aux trois crayon is a "valuable" exercise, no pun intended. Click here for more on this traditional drawing method and my beloved Letterman sketch book.

Letterman Sketch, Aux Trois Crayon

conte crayon on paper

Back to the beach, this time aux trois crayon. I have alot of fun with this technique; click here for some details. Her facial features are so-so and I'm going to blame that on my inadequate-but-beautiful bedside table lamp -- okay for reading, but lacks a bit for drawing. No matter as these sketches are pure pleasure. Last night I crawled into bed, grabbed my sketchbook and little tin of conte crayons, started drawing, and the next time I looked up, Letterman was over. My right brain had fast-forwarded completely through the monologue, top ten, and all guests. Craig Ferguson indeed.

Aux Trois Crayon and a Limited Palette

Vacation Wish List - a magazine cruise ad

Conte crayon on paper

I've seen this ad running in several magazines lately and -- naturally -- I can't put my hands on it right now. I imagine it to be Italy, perhaps Ischia or Portofino - both lovely places for a holiday. We were so captivated by Letterman's monologue and guests that this drawing practically drew itself. I looked down and *poof* there it was. Working in only 4 values (3 colors + paper) is liberating. Reminds me of art teachers who advocate for a very limited palette - it immediately simplifies decision-making and unifies the canvas.

Au Revoir Leno, Aux Trois Crayons

I Do

Conte crayons on paper

Another Letterman sketch from this week. I've been experimenting with an old drawing technique called "aux trois crayons" in French, literally translated "with three pencils" or "with three chalks." Traditionally, the drawing is done with white, black, and sanguine on a toned paper, with the paper serving as a mid-range value. Many of the Old Masters -- da Vinci, Rubens, Watteau among others -- used this technique, particulary for nude studies and portraits. Developing skin tones is just so fun aux trois crayon!

Leno leaving the Tonight Show isn't really drawing too much attention at our house. I guess we are tried-and-true Letterman people though Sharkboy thinks some of Dave's "bits" are getting repetitive. Sigh. So it is in the real world. Our baby's growing up.