Sunday 23 June 2013

Getting to know my Iceberg Roses.

I'm participating in a six week e-course by Jane LaFazio at the moment.  I'm hoping it will help me build sketching confidence and enjoy a regular sketching habit without feeling guilty every time my backside hits a chair.  Why is it that we always fill our lives to the brim with a continual 'bombardment' of noise, activity and commitment?

I'm also currently reading a book called 'The Zen of Seeing' by Frederick Franck.  It's all about drawing as a meditation.  The book is written in his own handwriting which in itself slows down the process of reading and absorbing the information.  He talks about allowing your pen to 'caress' what you see....
"What really happens when seeing and drawing is that awareness and attention become contemplation.  Seeing and drawing is not a self indulgent 'pleasant hobby' but a discipline of awareness and unwavering attention to a world which is fully alive."  

Pretty deep huh?

Anyway, this weekend I put some of what I have learned into practice.....and I didn't feel the least bit guilty! 








6 comments :

Anonymous said...

I just love your sketches Fran.
Whether you are doing buildings, beach scenes or roses, they are always beautiful. Your lines just look so confident (I know you'll laugh at that) but I think you have nailed awareness and attention! so glad you enjoying and not feeling so guilty!! Looking forward to seeing more! Sue

Fran Ponta said...

Yes Sue I did laugh at the 'confident line' bit! I'm a complete sucker when it comes to plants though....I always enjoy looking at them, working in my garden and being around all those happy little Nature Spirits! Thank you for your lovely words.

Anonymous said...

Wow. Those are stunning. Beautiful, beautiful.

Fran Ponta said...

Thank you!

Anonymous said...

I realise that I accidentally tried to post that comment three times, but I think that's a rather appropriate accident, really, because these sketches are by far my favourite I think you've ever produced.

I'd love to see them in the reals eventually. The second image, after the photo of the rose, literally made my jar drop.

Okay, I shall stop now because your head may be getting so large you can no longer fit through the door. Cocos Palmus may very well beat you up that back step after all. :)

Fran Ponta said...

Ha Cocos Palmus! Very funny m! Your comments make me smile.