Today’s exercise was about looking at a Roman arch as part of a complete architectural structure rather than simply drawing the arch itself. I started with a very quick pencil construction to establish the semi-circular arch and its proportions. The loose pencil lines then took over a little, helping me explore the structure before committing to the Pilot Falcon with Elephant Black ink. The main sketch brought together the central arch, columns, side openings, masonry, shadows and the surrounding structure. I deliberately avoided drawing every individual stone and instead selected the lines that seemed to describe the construction and character of the monument. I’m beginning to understand that suggestion isn’t about drawing fewer lines; it’s about deciding which lines actually help describe what I’m seeing. I say that but I am more sure if I have the prescience when sketching. The stronger definition lines surprised me because I initially thought they were too bold, but they seem to give the drawing more structure and confidence. The next step is to become more deliberate about where those stronger lines belong, while keeping the looseness I’m starting to enjoy.
Score 8/10, I don’t think this is hangable but who argues with those that will have all the power in a few years or less!
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