I have been drawing since childhood, but it was in my late 20s that I uncovered a deep passion for depicting the human figure. This love affair with the figure has since blossomed into a rich exploration that continually reveals itself in new and captivating ways. I find the figure to be one of the most challenging subjects to capture.
There is an overwhelming wealth of emotion, complexity, and nuance within each pose that invites observation and interpretation. Breathing life into the figure on the page and allowing it to articulate its voice is a remarkable accomplishment. For me, this process transcends mere technique; it becomes a form of meditation—an intimate connection to the world, to other people, and even to something divine.
Through drawing the figure, I have the opportunity to deepen my understanding of anatomical structure, proportion, perspective, and expression, while also honing my capacity to see and observe with clarity. The artistry of Rembrandt, Da Vinci, and many other masters continues to inspire me, guiding my hand as I strive to emulate their brilliance.
Over the years, I have been fortunate to learn from extraordinary teachers, including Sharon Pearson at San Francisco City College, the late artist Alan McCorkle, and, of course, the talented models from the Bay Area Models Guild. Each of these influences has enriched my journey, enabling me to grow as an artist.
While many of my drawings—both gestural and polished—are crafted in charcoal, I also experiment with pastels, watercolors, pen and ink, and whatever materials I can gather. Yet, there is something about the malleability of charcoal that resonates deeply with me, its versatility allowing for both bold strokes and delicate nuances.
My artistic process revolves around composition, focusing on the intricate and evolving structures that make up the human form. I explore all the substructures that contribute to our visual perception, as well as those elements we may sense but cannot necessarily see. Layering the interplay of lines, curves, angles, and perspectives transforms my subjects, weaving them into vivid, breathing entities. Ultimately, every subject or model reveals their own story to both me and the viewer.
Often, I begin my drawing long before the pencil meets the paper, envisioning it in my mind’s eye as I take the time to observe the model from various angles and perspectives. Framing the paper itself is a deliberate act, creating a boundary for the unfolding artwork. When I finally make that first mark, it is simple, elemental, sparse, and gestural; it paves the way for the structural composition that follows.
Capturing the human form, with its unique rhythms and attitudes, delves into the psychological intricacies and emotions of each subject. This exploration captivates me, even as I recognize that I cannot fully convey all that the model embodies or could embody. Drawing the figure is not just an artistic endeavor; it is a profound joy and a cherished privilege. It serves as my way of recording the vibrancy and spirit of life. I hope that others, perhaps you, may discover a spark of inspiration within these drawings.