For long I've been devoted to the practice of figure drawing. As a young art student I fell in love with the pursuit of capturing the energy, vitality and beauty of a living model. Soon it became my goal to teach courses in Life Drawing and Anatomy so that I could share my passion for the subject with others.
Female Nude Reclining
chalk pastel and oil paint on printmaking paper
30.5" x 22.5"
In 1983 I began attending figure drawing sessions every Friday night to get extra practice. The group, which is open to the public, has been meeting weekly for nearly 50 years, and still meets to this day.
It is hard for me to believe, but I've been teaching in the art department at that same university for 19 years now!
All of my pastel drawings in this post were done at Friday Night Open Figure Drawing sessions and were created during 3 hour long poses.
Each is 30.5" x 22.5"
Female Nude with Parasol and Fan
chalk pastel and oil paint on printmaking paper
30.5" x 22.5"
These drawings are on thick printmaking paper that were prepared with abstract color blocks using oil paint. The colors of the underpainting influence my color choices as I work.
Female Nude Model with Fan
chalk pastel and oil paint on printmaking paper
30.5"x22.5"
I prefer the color and texture of Rembrandt brand pastels. Often a sepia conte crayon is used for the preliminary line work.
In the beginning the delicate drawn image is very difficult to see against the vibrant bold shapes.
Female Reclining Nude
chalk pastel and oil paint on printmaking paper
30.5" x 22.5"
I am very excited about the interaction of color as the background affects the way the thin colored lines are perceived.
A great variety of people modeling keeps the experience fresh and challenging.
Some of the original pastel drawings pictured here are available for purchase online. Check it out by clicking the link below -
More figure drawings will be featured in future posts!
