Moleskin

After compromising on many a cheap sketchbook over the years I recently read about an artist that swears by the Moleskin.

So I bought one and wish I'd done so years ago. It's great. Nice weight in each page and the texture of the paper is great. It really holds the graphite and helps build up the darks.

Broke it in with this two hour sketch today.

Ganga's Offering - Pt8

Tonight the candles were lit and so I was able to concentrate on the darks and lights with a proper light reference. Think the picture makes more sense now.

Ganga's Offering - Pt7

Slow progress as the candles were a bit of a struggle. If I didn't get that organic feel I fear they might look like tin foil holders - which they're not. Anyway I hope I captured that feel.

Ganga's Offering - Pt6

What with Easter school projects and sunny sunny days I haven't been in the "studio" much but I made some good progress last night. I'm looking forward to starting something new so hopefully it won't be long until this one is completed.

Sorry about the glare but it was still quite wet when I took the photo.

Ganga's Offering - Pt5

Tonight it was time to add a little contrast in throw in some lovely colours on the turban.

Apologies about the glare but the paint was quite wet and reflective when I took the picture.

Ganga's Offering - Pt4

One evening later and the basis of his cloak is done.

Decided to rename the painting to "Ganga's Offering" as what my Indian friend is doing is floating flower encirlced candles down the river Ganges. They are given as offerings to Ganga, who is revered as a living goddess- Varanasi, Uttar Pradesh, India

Ganga's Offering - Pt3

Here we are on sitting (well standing really) three. I decided to started with the hardest part first and tackle the face. I was really nervous about this as the underpainting didn't feel like much of a guideline. However once I got going with all the colours it all seemed to magically come together.

I started on part of the robe but got a little tired after all the face work, and decided to pack it in for tonight. I am pleased with the results so far though.