Three Fairy Chimneys
On January 2, 2011 by Byron With 6 Comments
- Artist's Trading Cards
A few weeks ago I took a walk with drawing supplies and no set plan on where to go. Walking the valleys around here is an adventure. Every valley seems to fold into another valley and surprises lurk where one does not expect them. I can walk from point A to B, places I have been before, but make just one new choice of direction along the way and see amazing things I have never seen before. I did not get very far on my walk that day because the drawing and photo opportunities were too good. Above is one of the scenes I saw.
I am studying your pencil-shading. I have taken (sort of) one pen-and-ink drawing class, and practice shading that way, quite a bit, but I really like the width of the pencil marks for this. Also, I never give myself permission to attend to the fore- and background as you have here…as just a suggestion that gives really nice definition to the subject. It seems I can never stop fiddling! By the way…I love this. It makes me want to bust out the watercolor set.
Also, the middle-size chimney? Looks like it could be the Bat Cave.
I am officially enamoured of you, Unmitigated. These things you wrote? Now those are comments.
Byron: what jumps out at me most are the power lines–totally summing up the crazy ancient stuff as they intersect with the unexpected modern. All we need are a bunch of plastic bags blowing in the trees, and it’s complete for me.
I had to look for the power lines, Joc, but you’re right; they’re an ironic irony – a good example of ironication, as our former pres might say. It’s really cool that you’re appreciating a place where amazement is an everyday occurrence, and you’re still appreciating it.
kinda makes you want to overhear people giving directions doesn’t it? turn left at the fairy chimneys and head down the hill until you see the dove nests, then hang a right until you come to the panoramic view.
Sigh. As if reading your wife’s excellent writing were not enough reason for me to fold my tent, I come across more evidence that there are people out there who have talent – who can actually render what’s in front of them into wonderful drawings.
I know, I know, it can be learned. But I didn’t learn it. And so I’m more than a bit envious. Go walking some more, Byron.