A Modern Day Medium

Back in my college days I really started to find a love for sketching with charcoal, graphite and other like-minded mediums. I love how they can be smoothed and manipulated in ways to add such depth or character to whatever subject I was focusing on at the time.

Fast forward to the “mom days” where the days of picking up messy mediums and a sketchbook just isn’t an easy task! As a mom and as an artist I tried all I could to have such creative moments. Until one day I decided to play around with the Apple Pencil. I was amazed how I could influence each stroke with all the many variables. I was hooked! I finally had the freedom to pick up a pencil anytime that was convenient for me. I’d sketch a little in the pick up line while waiting for my boys to get out of school. I would sketch in-between my daily house duties for a little break - which made laundry and dishes far more bearable!

Once familiar with my technique and strategy in this new digital medium, I reached out and made it available in my commissions. There were definitely a few hiccups along the way. Trying to navigate the proper sizing for printing and downloads was trial and error. But I came to good place where I could offer portraits at a reasonable rate with an easy way to access the finished product.

Recently I had the chance to do a portrait of a beautiful dog Laney. This project was quite special - it was a gift to a couple that had to lay their sweet lady to rest. The photos that were sent to me as a guide, were of a stunning German Shorthaired Pointer. She was poised with such grace. Beautiful chocolate tan ears and spotting on her neck and body. She was full of character and I couldn’t wait to start! Little did I know I would fall back in love with sketching and what “creating art” really meant for me. This portrait was not just a beautiful dog that would put a smile onto someones face, but a treasured keepsake to this family. A portrait to look on and be reminded of the loyal loving dog she was to them. It was done for a purpose! I went on to do some as Christmas gifts. I even did a couple of beautiful black cats who were also cherished pets that are no longer living. Each project was special and unique in its own way. And so my journey with digital portraits begins! I cannot wait to hear the story of the next one!