Quick Sketches

(C) 2020 Dale DiMauro

Quick sketches are a recording of an artist's thoughts, compositionally. Is this a picture I want to develop further? Can I make it a stronger statement? Is the inspiration such that I cannot put it aside?

This pencil drawing is based on a waterfall and stream I experienced on a trip to Maryland several years ago. On one hand the sound and movement of the water was captivating, yet the spring burst of green growth and brown ledges drew me in. Often a new setting makes us aware of the differences from what we experience in our everyday lives.

The fun part is when you begin to simplify the composition or consider alternatives. In this sketch I eliminated the scrawny tree growth above the waterfall which made the falls have a greater impact. Also, I have considered tweaking the edges of the stream so that the viewer is in the path of the water.

As a result, I think when you draw from life you begin to see more clearly. Thus, perhaps, you develop better judgement.