I've often thought of drawing the Forth Rail Bridge but never seemed to get round to it. When I saw a photograph taken by my good friend Ingrid Ormestad on a misty, murky day I was intrigued at the way the bridge gradually faded away into the distance and appreciated the challenge in trying to capture that with pencil. This was drawn on Smooth Bristol Board. I know a lot of artists swear by it but I wasn't that impressed. I prefer more of a tooth but I felt the smooth surface was essential given the amount of detail. I think I need to try a few other smooth-surface papers.
I actually finished this drawing about three weeks ago but, just at that time, my 96-year old father became poorly. A week later, on October 12th, he passed away. Apart from the last couple of years as Alzheimers slowly started to take him from us, he has had a good life, being married to my mother for 68-years.
Now that my easel is empty and things are slowly returning back to normal, whatever that is, I'm thinking that my next serious drawing should be a portrait of Dad. Watch this space!!
Beautiful work John. I'm always impressed with your handling of tonal values in pencil.
ReplyDeleteMy condolences on the loss of your father.
Thank you very much Keith, very kind of you.
DeleteSo sorry for the loss of your father.
ReplyDeleteThis is a lovely drawing and you've managed the fading, misty effect brilliantly.
Thank you Sue. ;-)
DeleteSupernice drawing, and such a lot of details on the bridge. But then you are an expert indead on details John :) I also found another favourite; "Contre jours". So beautyful!
ReplyDeleteSorry to hear about your dad. He had a long life, but that doesn´t matter, you still miss him, I know.
So nice to see your artwork today. I promise to come back sooner next time. (I have picked up my brush last night, so hope I will manage to get back in track again.) Take care!
Thank you Catharina. It's so good to hear you've picked up your brushes again. I'll pop across to your blog for a peek. ;-)
DeleteSorry to hear your sad news John. It is never easy regardless of how old our parents are when they pass away. Your drawing is fantastic and so beautiful. Your wonderful talent shines through really strongly.
ReplyDeleteYou're very kind Laura, thank you.
DeleteI'm so sorry to hear about your Dad!!! Thoughts and prayers to you and your family, John!
ReplyDeleteThis drawing is fantastic...!!! The bridge is so perfectly painted! Congratulations!!!
Thank you very much Hilda.
DeleteThis is fantastic John! The water looks like I could dip my toes right in!
ReplyDeleteLike you, I'm not a fan of Bristol Board either...
I am so sorry to hear about your Dad. It's so sad :0(
Sandra, the Bristol Board I have is described as "Extra Smooth" and that may be the problem. Perhaps a less smooth Bristol Board will work better for me. Thank you for your lovely comment.
DeleteOh my goodness John. This is exceptional, you are an amazing artist. So sorry about your Dad, it is always so difficult to loose a loved one, especially a parent. My thoughts are with you.
ReplyDeleteAll the best to you,
Joan
You're very kind Joan, thank you very much.
DeleteAll the best.