Starting my paintings with a simple sketch is a crucial first step in my artistic process. It allows me to work out my ideas and come up with a solid concept before diving into the actual painting. With the incredible technology we have available today, such as my iPad, sketching has become easier than ever before.
Using my iPad, I am able to use the CTR Z function whenever I need to make a change or fix a mistake. This allows me to experiment freely without worrying about ruining the entire composition. You can even create a digital painting study with the iPad which allows the artist to change colors easily and utilize different brushes and textures all with the simple swipe of a finger or a stylus.
I am not alone in this process. Many of the master artists from the past also sketched before beginning their paintings. Leonardo da Vinci said, "To any artist, worthy of the name, all in nature is beautiful because his eyes, fearlessly accepting all exterior truth, read therein, as in an open book, all the inner truth." This quote speaks to his process of observing nature and sketching his findings before creating his masterful works of art, such as the Mona Lisa. Leonardo also said, “Stick to your purpose and let your sketches be your guide."
Another artist who always sketched first was Vincent van Gogh. He once said, "I am always doing what I cannot do yet, in order to learn how to do it.” He also said, “I sometimes think there is nothing so delightful as drawing.” Van Gogh's sketches were a crucial part of his learning process and allowed him to experiment with new techniques and concepts before applying them to his final paintings, such as his iconic Starry Night.
Sketching also played a significant role in the works of Rembrandt. He once said, "Choose only one master; Nature." His sketches were a way to study the natural world and capture its beauty and essence before translating it into his paintings, like his famous self-portraits.
In the video below, I am sketching on my iPad an idea or a concept I have for my next painting, part of my series Women & Their Cars which explores the correlation between women's freedom and mobility.
Sketching is a fundamental part of my creative process as is for many artists, both past and present. It allows for experimentation and the development of a concept before committing to a final piece.
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