If there’s one thing that stands out as “best decision of 2018, so far”, it would have to be joining the life drawing group I’ve been attending on Mondays. It’s exciting and humbling and one of best the learning experiences I’ve had in a long time.

If I can remember, I like to take photos of my progress during our breaks. Doing so is a great learning tool for looking back later to see how the drawing progressed, and when it may have veered off beyond the point of no return.

A not-altogether-unexpected perk is that it’s an excuse to buy new art supplies. I spent a silly amount of time in the pencil aisle at Dick Blick when were were in San Francisco last month, and a couple of weeks ago decided to treat myself to a lightweight travel easel.  There is a world of difference between having my board upright and stationery, and propping it against a chair with my knees!

The model holds only one pose per full session, but the sittings are in 20 minute increments with 5 minute breaks in between.  John was especially good.  He had a remarkable memory for getting back into position and kindly offered an extra five minutes each time the timer went off in case anyone needed to finish what they were working on.

John     ©2018 Elizabeth Fram, Graphite and Charcoal on Paper, 24 x 18 inches

He brought all sorts of woodsman-like props, and even offered to bring his chainsaw in from his car if we wished!  Could it get any better?

❖

Katherine Tyrrell of Making a Mark is developing a page on the Art Business Info for Artists section of her blog that will hopefully become a series of interviews with professional artists about the reality of their working lives. The debut post with Catherine Ingleby covers some worthwhile ground. I was especially interested in the section on how Ingleby allocates her time. Something else may resonate with you.