Charcoal still life with ribbon, glass & reflection. 18x24

This is another still life set up from my ART 111 class.  I liked drawing the drapery and the big glass pitcher.  Ive learned that when starting a new charcoal art piece I find it easier to draw with vine charcoal first, because it is easy to erase.  Once I complete that, I draw over that with a charcoal pencil, then wipe the whole drawing with a cloth. This makes it easier for me to blend in more charcoal for texture, depth, shading, and detail.  I complete my drawing with highlights.

My completed charcoal still life/ drapery with diff textures & fabrics (lace, fur, rope, felt, cotton, & silk). Something Prince would love to wear...hehe.

Our art assignment was to pick one area on this still life display.  And yes, I drew the whole display.  I loved drawing the lace, fur, and leopard print.  The silk was a little challenging, but I think I did ok with that.  I plan to draw Xia with a big fur cap on. Its going to be cute!

Conte Crayons

I found a new favorite medium to create my art; Conté crayons!  Conte' come in wonderful fall colors that I love. It has oil in it so it is easier to smooth out or blend with other colors.  As you can see in my art, I blended with other colors to create texture.  It was easier to erase to create highlights and to sharpen to create detail.  Im looking forward to working more with this new medium I love.

http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Cont%C3%A9

Charcoal Crumpled Bag

I am currently taking ART 111 where I have learned to work with charcoal for the first time.  I like working with charcoal better than graphite. You can create a darker smoother piece of art.