Horse, 45 x 60cm, monotype on Rives BFK.
I've never really done horses before so I used some horse anatomy pictures to understand how they're put together. It was a change to my usual method of drawing from my head, but I enjoyed seeing how the muscles and bones go together and then trying to put them into different positions. I haven't studied anatomical drawings before but I think I will again as it's shown me that there's still a lot I should learn about the other animals I draw. Having said that, I didn't try to stick to it religiously as I'm not sure their bodies would really bend as much as I'd like them to! The horse above is the last one, and my favourite. The other three I did before it are below.
Hey, these are great, such movement! I can certainly recommend studying animal anatomy, it's got me out of a few corners when I can refer to something that explains whats going on beneath the skin or fur. Also love Endgame, it captures the beauty and fierce energy of nature really well. I know what you mean about the conflict, like that beautiful and tragic battle between the wolf and bison on Frozen Planet.
ReplyDeleteThanks Louise!
DeleteThat battle between the wolf and bison was such an amazing thing to see. Especially when they said it went on for over an hour!
Yeah, looking at the anatomy drawings was a big help. Do you have animal anatomy books?
I rely on my battered copy of An Atlas of Animal Anatomy for Artists (Ellenberger/Dittrich/Baum). It's one of the best artistic presents I've received, lots of diagrams of various views of skeleton & muscles of quite a few animals, although I think it majors on horses (including some Stubbs plates). Once you can see how the body works though, you can relate it to most animals, since we're all related! I use it almost every day. I also have a copy of the Muybridge book Animals in Motion, good for odd angles and gaits but the anatomy book is the one. Anyway you've been on a roll, makes me look very lazy!
ReplyDeleteHaha. It's quite a recent thing that I'm working so much. The main change came when I started printmaking (and especially when I discovered monotype), after a long spell of horrible artists block with painting. I'm worried this run will end and I'll go back there again, so just trying to enjoy it while it lasts!
DeleteThanks for the book info! I think I'll invest in a copy.
My new years resolution - get into monoprinting. I've tried it and I really like the texture and immediacy of it. Don't think I have the patience or mindset for editioned printmaking. Have you seen John Simpson's monoprints? Good if a bit spooky!
ReplyDeleteGet the book from Amazon or Dover books, its not expensive.
Actually I have a question - is plexiglass better than regular glass and where do you get it from? Better arm myself with some info so I can get ready to tackle it.
ReplyDeleteJust ordered it from Amazon, cant wait!
DeleteYeah John Simpsons monoprints are great, love the big bears.
Glass would probably work just as well as plexiglass, but you can't put it in a press. I also like the clear plastic better because it's lighter and tough. I got a big sheet of it from B+Q and cut it into a few different sizes. I should think you'll be able to get some off the internet cheaper though. Good luck, looking forward to seeing what you make!
Oh great, B&Q is easy. Does it come in different thicknesses and what did you cut it with? Thanks
DeleteJust had a look on the B&Q website and couldn't find any, but found this at screwfix which I think is the same sort of thing: http://www.screwfix.com/p/liteglaze-aerial-acrylic-glazing-sheet-clear-600-x-1200-x-2mm/79068
DeleteYou should be able to get it from anywhere like that, homebase etc.
I think there were a couple of different thicknesses and I got the thinner one. It's about 2mm thick. You can cut it with a stanley knife - it takes quite a few strokes but eventually snaps apart. Then sandpaper the edge if it's a bit sharp. I also lightly sanded the top as I read it takes the ink better if you do.
Thank you for your advice; you're a star! You'll have to run a course!
ReplyDeleteSeriously thank you. Once I've had a good clear out of my studio I'm going to have a go.
You're welcome, glad to help :-)
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