Wednesday, February 16, 2011

where sleeplessness awaits

So I started this drawing about two or three weeks ago but unfortunately it's going to have to be put on the back burner for the next few days as a new, more pressing deadline has emerged from nowhere.

This is one of the most ambitious drawings that I've undertaken yet. It's on A3 paper which is double the size I normally use. Plus it's full colour. Thus far it has taken approximately 20 hours.

Anyway, I thought I'd take this opportunity to show you how I make these big mad drawings as it is a question I'm asked often. In the past I've been asked if I set up the compositions or whether I draw from a photo. The answer to both of those questions is no. I almost always draw from life.

What I do do is start with a couple objects (in this case the tram ticket, the Mary and baby Jesus and the seahorse) and then add the rest around them. I place the other objects on the paper, mapping it out piece by piece. It's almost as though the composition works itself out. I love drawings like this. I love the way they reveal themselves to me, the way they unfold in front of my eyes.

15 comments:

tricky said...

it's really interesting to see how your drawings emerge from paper ... they're so good, almost unreal, and witnessing those phases makes them look even more remarkable

jill said...

thanks for showing us, your drawing is unique to you, it must be lovely and truly seems like a gift

Anonymous said...

Wow, it's like your fingers have the touch of life and everything becomes real slowly on a sheet of white paper.. beautiful and amazing talent and patience!!

Unknown said...

Yesterday, I was sketching out some ideas for jewelry I want to make and thinking about your work. You have SO much patience!

kateri ewing said...

It's silly how excited I get when I see a new post on your blog. Simply amazing...and so inspiring, the hours you have put in to your craft. Can't wait to see it finished.

JGG said...

unbelievable - can't wait to see the finished piece!

Toyin O. said...

Very beautiful drawing, you are very talented, thanks for sharing.

harem6 said...

Love your style!

Joan Y said...

Your precision is just astounding Andrea! I can't wait to see how this one evolves! Nice job. Peace!

Leah said...

I always love your work. The attention to detail is amazing. :)

adebanji said...

These are just simply amazing and well detailed too!

aswedishgal said...

You are amazingly talented. Just found your blog. I'm so glad I did.

Natalie said...

Your drawings are so amazing they make my brain hurt. Never ever ever stop!

PhotogeniqueDuo said...

i think i just had an eyegasm, if that is quite possible. this is wonderful! i find it hard to believe that this is not a photograph, and that you actually drew in each tiny detail! i especially like the red flags :)

andrea joseph's sketchblog said...

Thank you guys.

Photogenique girl, teehee. 'Eyegasm'? That's fabulous. I'm storing that for future reference.

Cheers, guys. Some new stuff on the way. Promise.