That's what I like to keep telling myself. I love trying to say more with less, like with the really fast swan sketches. I'm not sure why that is...I suppose it shows that there's some thought gone into the marks when you don't try and fall back on lots of shading or effects. I like the economy of a pure line but with self portraits I often resort to shading/modelling of some sorts. I try and keep my lines crisp but they often end up a bit wayward. More practice I guess.....

Recently, I've got into the habit of drawing a few people in the refectory at lunchtime. It's a great way to forget about work and I love getting the practice. The trick is trying to be as discreet as possible! Generally, people don't seem to mind. They don't all come off as people move about quickly but the urgency stops me tightening up (which I can very easliy end up doing given more time!). Here's a recent sample from the sketchbook...

I've been really busy getting the new website up and running so there's not been that much time left for painting lately. Still, I've been managing to do a few pieces of drawing here and there and will post up some shots soon.

I hope people like the new site. I really felt as though it needed a complete overhaul. Now I just need to get some new paintings done to fill the site with. Phew....I need a holiday!