Classical Drawing

[Mai Ly]

Thanks Sharon, Juan and Steve for your patience in posting your detailed replies to my question. And Juan, Degas' quote:

Painting is easy, until you learn how

is exactly how I feel (and I 'love' all Degas' work!).

I have a very scientific/mathematical mind with a science background. Although I do not regret what I have chosen to do, I do wish I have started my art career much earlier in life. I would have loved to go to one of the schools mentioned (actually, I do plan on going!) and do all the fun stuff that you have described. I know it's hard work, but I am a firm believer in having a solid knowledge of the fundamentals in all areas that I choose to do (in order to succeed in longer run).

Having said all the above, I do strive to sketch and draw life objects, charcoal study with portraits for pastels. With oils, I do strive to understand the all the colours of my limited pallette, from opaque to transparent, how they mix with each other, and do monochrome study of portraits. I do try to do figures, but none of nudes, simply because I have not had the chance to do so. So, at least I am a fraction of the way to doing the right stuff

Sharon and Juan, your websites and works are really beautiful! I would love to have an opportunity to study under one of you (though maybe Sharon is closer to where I live), if you do teach.

And Steven, your charcoal studies (show how much I have to improve with my own charcoal studies ) are really amazing! And I can see the forms and lines from your beautiful portrait.

Thanks again for your time to type up your 'in depth' replies.

Sincerely,
Mai