Clayboard aka Scratchboard

There is a very unique feel to using scratchboard, and the results of white line on black background force the artist to think of form and negative space without color in mind, almost like a value study in reverse. There are many effects that can be done using a variety of scratching tools and further use of paint or stain can bring the finished piece to vibrant conclusion.

Drawing opposite handed

I am right -handed and this portrait study of Anna was drawn entirely left-handed. It is extremely difficult to draw opposite handed and also a very awkward experience as if though you are not in control of your limb. However, learning to work opposite handed is a valuable ability as it allows you to approach things from multiple ways. Leonardo DaVinci could draw profficiently with both hands and it is theorized that having that ability allowed him to access both hemispheres of his brain simultaneously, thus explaining his ingenuity and innovation.

Drawing from a dark background

It is very difficult to work from dark to light. For this study, I wanted to see if I could apply color on black paper to create all the warmth and light on the figure without having to worry about the dark values. The difficulty with drawing though, is that you are limited in the value range you can achieve and can easily over saturate certain colors making them too intense. Notice the eyes, once light is added it becomes difficult to darken them again. Especially in this medium, as colored pencils do not leave much room for correction. This is an important excersise that all artists must attempt as it helps understanding values and temperature when you are working in reverse. Caravaggio was the master at bringing lights our from a dark background, and his work pops off the canvas.