A request for Marina Dieul.

[Debra Jones]

I am constantly gasping in awe when you post your charcoals and chalk works. I have envied the work and have just a bit too much time on my hands these days and enough bravery to ask: Is there any way you could show some works in progress or describe the process and sequence you use to build these amazingly alive skin tones out of black white and red?

I completely understand if you wish to keep it to yourself, but I have a hard time working with white except for the brightest areas for the dullness and gray I get in charcoal.

If you could, I know many would appreciate it. IF I have missed it and you have done some works in progress could someone point me to them?

Thank you,

[Marina Dieul]

Hello Debra,
when I first develop this technique , I couldn't imagine how many requests I receive nowadays to share my "secrets" .
Well, I suppose I will have to give a workshop or to write a book some day...
I like to share my discoveries and techniques, but unfortunately I have no photos of my works in progress. I have some photos only at the very last stages, when I need a fresh eye , I like then to watch my drawing on a computer...
I will just have a problem doing a work in progress in the near futur : TIME !
For the moment I'm trying to finish a painting before packing things to leave to Europe.
But I promise, next time I make a drawing with this technique, I will take some photos of all stages.
I already have madea small demo some time ago, and if I can find few hours next week or the week after, I will try to make a more detailed one.

Here is "The bell"
16" x 20" on Fabriano artistico.
I used some fusain Nitram, pressed charcoal, and carr

[Marina Dieul]

Here is another detail

[Debra Jones]

Whew, I was afraid I might be stepping on toes, and I am grateful for the link. It had opened my eyes to some of the process. The tools, as you know, are only the ingredients. The CAKE is what comes of learning the process and generous applications of skill and wisdom.

I appreciate this post as it has really helped me understand a bit better how it comes together.

OF COURSE I await the promised beginnings to come! Thank you.

[Marina Dieul]

I'm very sorry, Debra, I couldn't find time before leaving, and now I have even less time and a limited access to Internet... You will have to wait few months, sorry...

[Debra Jones]

We are all happy to know you are going to have more to come!

It will be even better for the wait!

Thank you, I am awaiting with anticipation!