Artists make a good subject

Today was a day off like a holiday. That means it’s June, the sun is out d we went along the seafront and enjoyed lunch at our favourite beach cafe – Down the Beach at Burlington Chine.

After lunch a break was needed so we sat on the sand sheltered from the Sw wind by the groyne. Local artist Ben Spurling was painting Ballard Down, I almost didn’t recognise him as I usually see Ben out with his classic Dawes mountain bike which is the same model I had back in 1988.

Ben at work

As Ben was focused on painting a piece of Ballard Down, I sat and sketched him. I took a photo of my piece and presented Ben with the sketch of him.

My sketch of Ben painting

Artists are a good subject for drawing or painting as they are often sat very still or only move a small amount. Also as he was faced away from me there was no fear of getting his facial features wrong.

In the recent Purbeck Art Week exhibition for 2023 it was noticeable that very few figures / people featured in the art on show. I have gained confidence and include figures in pieces more than previously but generally avoid drawing faces as it is not something I feel secure at.

What subjects do you avoid doing? And why?

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