Ivan, conte sketch

Chris Saper · 10-22-2002, 04:51 PM

Red conte on Canson cream Mi-Tientes, 18" x 14".

This drawing was the result of an intended Open Studio, where the model was a no-show. Several of us took turns in relatively short poses, about 30 minutes. Ivan has one of the most interesting faces I have ever drawn.

Enzie Shahmiri · 10-22-2002, 11:19 PM

Chris, I love the color and overall feel. Your drawing reminded me of Jean-Baptiste Greuze's work. In an article in Art and Antiques they had some drawings of his and commented how he was somewhat "shunned for drawing life's harsh realities". There are a few "pretty faces" among his work and others that are full of emotion. To me nothing is more thrilling when viewing a work that strikes a deep emotional feeling. It's almost like telepathy, you look at the drawn image and it speaks volumes of its life. That's what I call true talent!

Michael Georges · 10-23-2002, 12:09 AM

Chris: What a wonderful start to this new Open Studio section!

The work feels very free and I am seriously impressed to see this from only 30 minutes! Very nice.

Chris Saper · 10-23-2002, 12:24 AM

Thank you, Enzie, and thanks for tuning me in to Greuze's work. I have some appalling gaps in art history and it is wonderful to learn of new (old) artists whose work I can enjoy researching.

Michael, thank you. I can, however, assure you for every sketch that has turned out in a 30-minute session, I have tossed 20 (50? Who knows?) that were disasters after three hours. Nonetheless, I am an ardent proponent of the idea that successes are built of thousands of tiny failures, and our refusal to believe that the next one will fail, too.

I have to say, though, there is nothing more fun that drawing for drawing's sake, with only oneself to satisfy in the end. And it's not always the product that ends up being satisfying, sometimes it's just the process.

Debra Jones · 10-23-2002, 05:42 PM

This is a well-timed forum for me.

Your note to come look came at a time when I am trying to promote my work to the Christmas crowd, but feeling very empty at the whole idea of "portraiture" as a goal.

Your note about painting (or drawing) for MY satisfaction is just what I need to hear. The energy and enthusiasm of your work in the moment shows the thrill of the exercise. Each stroke is a lesson when we do it in open studio. The thrill of experiencing creation among other artists is a lot like athletics. There is an unstated competition that comes over me to be not only MY best but to see who is better in the group and challenge myself to rise to the occasion.

Valuable forum. Elegant rendering.

Thank you!