Drawing in the Desert
Via Raposa toward the Catalinas - March 15
Conte crayon
Conte crayon
During my two week stay in Tucson I drew on an almost daily basis. In March the Sonoran Desert is green with abundant vegetation of varied shapes and textures. The sun-drenched landscape contrasts greatly to that of Maine and loses most of its shadows by mid morning. To my eye variations of light on mountains assume the role in the Arizona landscape that light on the sea takes on in Maine, and whereas Maine feels weighty and bold, the desert feels airy, delicate, and textural. I drew to see and to learn about these differences.
Saguaro National Park East
Santa Catalina Mountains
As I worked, the space I saw prompted changes in process. I began with familiar materials, toned page and charcoal, but gradually adapted to the landscape, shifting from dense areas of dark to more minimal marks.
March 5, 2016
March 7, 2016
Via Raposa and Wasson Peak - March 14
Water soluble graphite
A piece of conte crayon taped to a stick, held at a distance from the paper insured less control and looser marks.
Backyard Garden - March 12
Morning View Toward Tucson and the Santa Rita Mountains - March 15
Water soluble pencil - line and value.