For all my excitement about my new novel, and tripping about to speak at book stores etc., I admit the busyness over the past few weeks has seen me flop on my bed for ‘Nana Naps’ most afternoons, my thoughts of sketching lost in dreams.
However, I woke feeling fresh this morning (ye ha!) and made a start on sketching three small figs on a saucer, before taking off to walk by the sea. So lovely with the hint of autumn in the air and tui going crazy in the trees.
My batteries were re-charged.
The sun was streaming in my studio window on return, and I quickly filled in the deep shadow cast behind the fruit. But, within a few minutes it had gone, and there I was, left with dark shadow I didn’t need, or want. Oh well, I thought, I can usually bring my ability into play, and began lifting off some of the tone. In retrospect I should have started afresh, but no, I had to keep fiddling. If I didn’t finish the sketch now these little figs would be rotten.
So, you have a sketch at least, something promised but not delivered on, until today. Maybe I should call it a smudge not a sketch.
Colours used: Faber Castell (artist quality) polychromos – Burnt Carmine, Deep Purple, Indian Red, Brown Ochre, Sap Green, Olive Green, Black.
ARTISTRY 
I like the way the figs are nestled. Very cozy!
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Lovely colours on those figs Vivienne.
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Lovely sketch. How demanding rotting figs can be. I am glad that your batteries have re-charged.
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One has to be quick to catch those figs. And, yes, so pleased my batteries have re-charged. BTW. This is where will are staying, nice and close to the centre. I’ll let you know the ph number we are using closer to the time. Very exciting.
Grand Canal Boutique Hotel
Keizersgracht 304, 1016 EX Amsterdam
IN 20 July; OUT 23 July
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You are staying in the absolute centre of Amsterdam. Great location.
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These are beautiful colours, Vivienne. Your sketch somehow reminds me of the warm, enchanting world of Ladybird books. Delightful.
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How nice that it reminds you of those illustrated books.
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Nice sketches, Vivienne! Yes, a good walk gets the batteries re-charged! I know it would have been a waste to wait until the little figs were rotten, but drawing still life such as fruit and flowers in rotten/decaying form adds more drama to the composition. Don’t you think?
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I agree with you Jason about sketching flowers especially long past their best. There’s such a freedom in having the leaves and flowers drooping all over the place.
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I think your sketch is lovely.
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