I find sometimes that simply returning to the basics is what art is about. In the process of returning to an earlier look, feel, style, discipline – whatever it is, I tend to bring something new into the mix.
My art is forever evolving. I’m always exploring new media and looking for something new to try. But sometimes I like to return to an old favorite of mine – good old fashion basic drawing. I love drawing because it’s simple and immediate. Simple because it really only requires the most basic of tools and materials. All you need is a pencil and some paper. Draw what you see. It’s pretty simple. Draw some more. Smudge something. Draw some more. Sign it. Done. Pretty immediate.
Gabriela [art in process] 2013
But as simple as drawing is, my appreciation has always leaned towards the discipline of studying shapes and translating flat surface into form — Chiaroscuro.
Drawing, for me, is a meditative process of sorts. Hours pass when I’m drawing. It’s like you’re there but you’re not. In a lot of ways, it’s like having the best seat in the house as I watch the drawing slowly revealed, going from a light sketch to a finished artwork. I hope you enjoy them as much as I enjoy creating them.
• • • • •
Gabriela – 17″ x 14″ drawing on Bristol paper – 2013 © A.D. Cook. Bell Collection.
• • • • •
CANADA OH CANADA | ARTISTICLIFESTYLES | THE ART OF REALISM