This is not what I usually draw or paint. It's quite small (6" x 4"), it has lots of fine details, it's very photographic, it doesn't have water, reflections, distortion, flowers or pebbles, and it's not made with the Icarus Drawing Board.
So, why did I do it and what have I learned from this experience?
Well, I did it as my contribution to the Los Angeles Colored Pencil Society Chapter project. We are putting together a compilation of small drawings of common California trees for the CPSA Convention in Dallas, Texas. I chose the eucalyptus tree because it grows everywhere in my area and it has a very attractive, colorful bark.
The drawing is so small and detailed that I really couldn't use the Icarus board nor any other wax-based media besides colored pencil. What I learned from this experience is that it's good for an artist every once in a while to do something out of the norm.
- Doing this small drawing reminded me how I really enjoy working big.
- The Icarus board would have allowed me to accomplish a much larger version in the same amount of time, especially with the addition of artist crayon or oil pastel.
- Photorealism is not my cup of tea.
- I missed pushing the colors as far as I usually do.
- I truly missed the magic of water.
I just can't wait to go back to my technique and artistic direction.
See you all in Texas in 10 days. Stop by the CPSA TRADE SHOW where I will demonstrate the Icarus Drawing Board.
Saturday, July 16, 2011 - 9:00 am - 2:00 pm
Renaissance Hotel, Richardson, Texas 75082
15 comments
Debbi Friedman
July 04, 2011
Well I think it’s a very interesting drawing, Ester. Love the perspective and treatment of the tree trunk especially. Can’t wait to see you in Dallas!
Ester Roi
July 04, 2011
Thank you, Debbi.
The feeling is mutual, I’m really looking forward to catching up with you in Dallas.
Hazen Folse
July 04, 2011
Good for you. Sometimes we need to get out of our comfort zone to remember how comfortable we are with our own style. Nice.
Hazen Folse
Ester Roi
July 04, 2011
You are so right, Hazen. Thanks for visiting.
Richard Klekociuk
July 04, 2011
Great to see an iconic Australian tree portrayed so cleverly, Ester. Love the angle and the textural feel you have obtained. Well done!
Ester Roi
July 04, 2011
Thanks for visiting, Richard, and for reminding us all where the eucalyptus comes from.
Jill
July 04, 2011
I have never seen a eucalyptus tree before. How pretty!
Ester Roi
July 04, 2011
Thank you, Jill. I’m glad I introduced you to one.
Jill
July 05, 2011
You’re welcome Ester and thank you for the introduction.
I love colored pencil and love using it myself to draw with as I have said many times before.
This work that you created without using the Icarus Art Board is beautiful.
Teresa Mallen
July 05, 2011
Hi Ester! Seems like you learned a lot while doing this small piece. Sometimes knowing who we are not is as important as knowing who we are! I tried leaving a comment on the previous post the other day but things didn’t go quite right I guess. Anyway, I wanted to say that I am sure your piece shall be very popular at the Silent Auction and I am also sure that ‘Social Network’ shall be an award winner!!!
Have a terrific time in Dallas and a wonderful time demoing your board at the trade show. I shall look forward to your posts on the trip when you return.
Ester Roi
July 05, 2011
Hi Teresa, thank you for your wise and kind words.
I’m looking forward to taking lots of pictures in Dallas and sharing them on my blog.
Kendra Ferreira
July 10, 2011
Hi Ester, I really like the perspective and the beautiful color in the tree trunk/bark. I think its really beautiful. Look forward to meeting you in Dallas!
Ester Roi
July 10, 2011
Thank you, Kendra. I’m looking forward to meeting you too.
Amber
September 29, 2011
Such a beautiful eucalyptus tree. My favorite is eucalyptus gunii. This tree is a gift of god because it has many domestic, herbal and medicinal benefits.
Ester Roi
September 30, 2011
Thank you, Amber.