Illustration + Nature Sketching
Something that came up in the recent run-through of my class Sketching Fundamentals and that is also a frequently asked question generally is how do you capture the atmosphere of a place quickly (in drawing or painting) before the light changes, and how to you find a good place to set up and work? I … Read more
Last time, I took you with me on a day of field sketching rich with local plants and orchids. There were so many and the day became increasingly hot that I didn’t finish all my sketches on that day. So I took a few close-up photos and made some color notes, and decided to finish … Read more
I’m taking you on another field sketching trip today. In this location, I found lots of different wild orchids at the beginning of June, and I was happy to spend a long time sketching, so the video got a bit longer. You can follow me around the entire day while I’m exploring the area and … Read more
It’s time for another sketchbook tour, this one will cover the sketches I completed in the spring of 2022. One thing I’m noticing about my sketchbook work recently is that I’m drawing slowly and with more intent, and that I’m focusing more on each subject. From a naturalist standpoint, I welcome this, it means I … Read more
Over the years I have been asked repeatedly if I use different palette colors in different seasons. Usually my answer was no, because I very rarely change the “classic” color on my small palette, and this is a field kit that already has quite the large number of colors (right now: 20). But this year … Read more
It can be hard to get started with sketching. Usually it’s simple enough to get all kinds of tools, theorize about all the materials you will need, but usually they are only a stand-in that you believe you will need for making great art. When you actually have a great sketchbook, and all kinds of … Read more
Today I’m going to take you with me for a field sketching session. I’m drawing Early purple orchids on location and finish my sketches at home, where I also do a few experiments with ink. I’ve also changed a few colors in my palette and I’m talking about how that happened. Here’s the video: Sketching … Read more
Today I have something a bit different for you, a calm painting video in which I sketch apple blossoms. I enjoy spring time so much, the apple and cherry orchards are always breathtakingly beautiful when they’re in bloom – and it’s always over so soon! This year, I managed to paint some apple blossoms in … Read more
Today I’d like to get your feedback!I’m always thinking about how I can write and structure this blog so that you enjoy reading it. So I’d like to ask you what you want me to write about, or what you generally would like to see more of, or any questions you might have (art-related or … Read more
Drawing is the fundamental skill behind keeping a sketchbook, visualizing your thoughts and making a great painting. Having well-practiced drawing skills will help you immensely when you’re trying to express yourself artistically. So learning to draw is the best gift you can give to yourself as an artist. Here are some tips to help you … Read more
Last week I showed you how effective it can be to limit the colors on your palette for a sketch. I find it can be a good method to get better at mixing, and to really get to know your paints (or some colors that you have lying around that you don’t use enough…) As … Read more
Last week I rediscovered a landscape sketching video I must have made last year and totally forgot about. I remember the scene though, I took the photo I painted from later very early on a summer day, with morning mist still densely on the fields, and the sun just about to peek through. It was … Read more