Rhonda

Rob Sullivan · 02-20-2005, 05:15 PM

14"x17", charcoal and graphite, Strathmore 100 lb paper.

This, I guess, would be considered an "open studio" work? It's from life in a 3-hour session.

I had wanted to move onto a painting from this, but was unable to do so. Rhonda is no longer close by, so this is as far as it goes. There's no photgraphic record, either as I very rarely photograph nude models. It's a touchy thing, as you can imagine. Sure, I have model release forms and all that, but I'd rather have the model's trust first - then they sign the form.

Since this was a one-session deal, I tried to push the pose and character in my traditional method: I get the model to talk a lot. It relaxes the model and allows their true "look" (i.e. - not stiffly posed) to come forth. Plus, the animation of facial expressions and body language lend a lot of resource material to the piece.

Even though I probably won't work on this any longer for the above reasons, but this is a critique section, I welcome any insights into what I may have overlooked (besides one hand and both feet -- call me lazy

).

Linda Brandon · 02-20-2005, 06:12 PM

Nice draping lines, Rob, and good values in the torso. I'm impressed that you got this much done in three hours! I like this pose so much that I think I'll steal it.

"Sticky Fingers" Brandon

Rob Sullivan · 02-21-2005, 09:20 AM

Can I have my car keys back, Linda?

Thanks for the compliments. I spend more time than I ought "designing" a pose for the model, and I often wonder if this time is better spent drawing or painting. But your comment tells me that it paid off this time.

I originally had a closeup here, but the resolution wasn't good enough to get that close. If anyone else is interested, I'll post some better shots (the navel ring came out rather well!).

Is this the right place to be posting this?

Kimberly Dow · 02-21-2005, 09:40 AM

I'm with Linda - this is a great pose! I'd be disappointed I didn't get to move onto a painting. I like everything about this.

Rob Sullivan · 02-21-2005, 10:57 AM

Quote:

Originally Posted by Kimberly Dow

I'd be disappointed if I didn't get to move onto a painting.

Yeah, it would have been great, but I guess I have to get over it and move on. Phooey.

Thanks for the nice comment, though. Wait - you're "with Linda" on this one? You mean "Sticky Fingers" Brandon? Does that mean you're gonna help her steal stuff from me? Great. Outnumbered again.

Jimmie Arroyo · 02-21-2005, 06:32 PM

Great job Rob, I too like everything about this, except that you removed the closeup. Unless Linda took it.

Marvin Mattelson · 02-21-2005, 07:56 PM

This drawing is a real beauty.

David Draime · 02-21-2005, 09:55 PM

Beautiful, luxurious drawing. I love the unfinished bits.

Rob Sullivan · 02-21-2005, 09:58 PM

Thanks, Jimmie! I'll re-shoot this when I get the chance. Um, that is, when Linda gives me back my camera.

Marvin - Thank you, sir! As usual, your compliments are highly appreciated and they let me know that I'm on a good track.

Sharon Knettell · 02-22-2005, 09:42 AM

Great dramatic pose and beautifully drawn.