This is a quick response to the following article. It’s from Nov. 12 – Artist Daily @ArtistDaily tweeted a link to the article, oddly enough, just when I was thinking of writing my own piece on sketchbooks.
Sketch I Will!!!!!!!
First sentence: “I find that being an artist or art student is a bit like being a parent. The phrase: “Do what I say, not what I do” is too often applicable.” When I was teaching at Kent State I forced my students (it was part of their grade anyway) to keep a sketchbook. “Draw a bit every day” I said. “Anything and everything,” I said. “This is important” – well, for your grade anyway.
What is the point? When I was a student I didn’t like it. As an artist I still don’t. Am I amazed and inspired by others who keep amazing little drawings wherever they go? SURE! It’s not for me; it’s hard. If I sketch, it dulls my larger works: too much time, too much thought, no heart in that bound, horrible paper. (I love good paper.)
Do I change this? Do I try as Judith tries?
While this question is still up in the air and the benefits can be argued either way, I put more effort into “Idea Books.” My idea books resemble the composition books John Doe made in seven. More writing and ‘napkin’ doodles. It’s a way for me to spill ideas so I can sleep at night.
* I’m sure there’s some grammar and passive voice problems
