Tuesday, January 31, 2012

Gesture Drawings Inspired by Music




For my husband's birthday last year I bought season tickets to the Cheyenne Symphony Orchestra.  I didn't imagine the inspiration that I would gain as an artist!  During the first symphony we attended I began thinking about how live musical performances have inspired other artists in the past.  Being an impressionist my first thought was Degas and his wonderful pastel paintings of dancers.  As I sat there I  regretted not brings any materials to do a few drawings.  The second concert I stuck in my purse,  a 3x4 sketch book and a pencil.  Unfortunately, I didn't bring enough pencils and the one I brought soon needed sharpening. This past weekend I came  prepared, bringing a 7x8 inch sketchbook and 4 fine point markers!   I was finally able to experience the excitement of creating quick gesture drawings in the tradition of many other artists before me!  After the event, inspired by capturing the moment through quick gesture drawings, I wanted to see what other artists had done.  One of the drawings I found was by John Singer Sargent, shown above.  As I look at his drawing, I can imagine the applause of the crowd and thrill of the moment! I hope the  3 drawings below that I did during the symphony on January 28th inspire you the with excitement of the evening!  We artists need to not forget to be open to new possibilities and ways to "capture the moment"!