So when is it finished?

There is the exploratory sketch which marks the beginning.

It is finished but I haven't finished what I wanted to say.

 It is still not yet complete. So I must say it again and again.

Until perhaps I have just said enough.

Sometimes a sketch is in order

Sometimes the pasted paper on paper feels confining.

The pen needs to go where it wants to go with nothing to prevent the flow of the ink.

So it is just a drawing. Just.

Symmetry and precision

There is a symmetry and precision in working with this medium. 

So unlike me in many ways and is completely different from what I paint.

Or is it? Down at the linear base, au fond, perhaps there is no difference at all.

The Consequences of Lines

While drawing I am aware that every line has consequences. 

I have to question myself though. Why do I say that?

 

An idea starts with a line and then another one. Steps follow steps -- shadows appear – the small lines become obvious after the broad strokes appear. And then I need to ask "Is it finished?"

Papiers Colles 2012

 I draw every day.  I wake up early and use this time to draw. Some have gift wrapping paper pasted on them and some don’t. These could be called mixed media with ink but I prefer the French term “papiers colles” or pasted papers. I see how they have evolved over the years – they are an endless source of fascination. I play with the design formed by the paper on paper before pasting it down. 
 

 Very few have titles proper.

Sometimes they become what I want and other times they are a surprise.

 

One friend asks “Is it forgiving?” I don’t answer. “What does she mean – forgiving?” I think. Then I make a mistake that I can’t cover up – only I know that it is a mistake. That’s all I can see. So, it is not forgiving after all.