ASBA 2024 - Susan Tomlinson - From Field to Studio

From Field to Studio with Susan Tomlinson

Sometimes we have a subject that can't be moved into the studio and studied at leisure. In these instances, the quality of the information we gather in the field is critical to helping us create the paintings and drawings in the studio. But if our field time is limited, we need to work efficiently and wisely to be certain we will have what we need to create a successful work of art. This workshop will focus on how to do that. We will use the first hour to consider what information might be needed, sketch the key components of a plant, make notes, color match, and take reference photos. Then we will create a preliminary drawing for a final work using only our "fieldwork" as a reference.

Supplies:

• A sketchbook, preferably one that opens to at least 9”x12”, with smooth or “hot press” paper heavy enough to handle some light watercolor (I use Stillman and Birn Zeta series, but there are others out there)
• PL38. Pencils: 2H, and HB or 2B
• E13. White eraser
• PL13. Small pencil sharpener
• M17. Micron pen, 03 or 05
• S1050, BR104, S679. Small watercolor set, brush, and mixing tray for matching colors to subject
• P43. At least ten sheets each of 9”x12” tracing paper and inexpensive drawing paper
• A phone with a camera or other small digital camera. (If you are traveling with an iPad or other tablet tablet/laptop, you might want to bring that to the class for viewing your reference photos, but this would be optional).