Tiffany with Cello

Tiffany with Cello
Tinted graphite on bristol

Still following the music theme, here is one I put together from several different sources.  Tiffany is drawn from one of her wedding photos, while the cello is drawn from another photograph.  She now plays the violin, which would make a lovely portrait, but at the time - she had been playing the electric guitar.  That would have make a totally different kind of portrait!  Whenever you merge different references, it is very important to make sure your light sources match.  One thing I find when I am working with the tinted graphite, the lead is harder than my beloved 8B.  Which means, I can not achieve the same deep, deep darks.  The graphite is just too gray for that.  Having the tint helps in this case.  I even added a bit more warmth with a watercolor pencil.  This drawing makes 202 in as many days :)

Undiluted Love

Undiluted Love
Graphite on bristol, 12x16
not for sale

What is more sacred than the love for a child?  This drawing is of my oldest daughter with her first child, Alan.  Drawn from photo reference, this was truly a labor of love.  I can feel the warmth of those chubby little arms and the baby softness of those sweet little cheeks as I laid kisses upon them.  It is something one never forgets.  The smell of their skin, the wisp of their hair against the face as they are drawn near, each sweet moment is unforgettable.  When I work on something like this, time just fades away.  I lose track of all things around me, my focus is on the paper alone.  I could simply get lost in the work - and not resurface for days!  Well, I guess the kids would be bothering me for food - eventually.  Why does everyone expect to be fed?  This is my 198th artwork in 198 days.