I want to develop skills necessary to obtain more depth and realism when including weeds in my drawings. I have tried taking pictures of weedy areas, but at this time so much detail seems a bit overwhelming. So, I decided to pick a few weeds, bring them inside where I can view them at my leisure. Al...

Laurene and Mike Thank you both for the feedback, both encouraging and useful. Especially when just completed it is hard to access your own work. Looking at it in a mirror or seeing it on the computer helps somewhat, but even then, it isn’t an entirely impersonal assessment. Mike, you touched on one...

This started as a practice piece, focusing on texture and perspective. During the process I realized I also wanted to tell a story, a story I still can’t quite define. Just something concerning what is hidden behind this aged door and rusty lock. It is either a suggested mystery for the viewer to po...

Thank you Laurene. Very thorough and helpful. I already do some of what you suggested, but your information will help me refine my technique. I know another technique is to use a very dark charcoal pencil. J.D. Hillberry uses that technique with great results. I tried it, but it seemed a bit harder ...

When graphite drawing I think it is very challenging, but useful to create a VERY dark, solid black. I would be interested in hearing how other artists create their darkest darks. Also, what they consider to be the pros and cons of methods they have either tried or currently use.

My name is Mary I have taken all three of Mike Sibley’s on-line classes. Each one was an enjoyable learning experience. I am looking forward to more great learning experiences through this community.