Artist Blog of Cheryl Radford

Sketching vs Drawing

5/15/2020

I have been asked "why do I call some of my artworks - sketches and some of my artworks - drawings?"

Official Definitions
sketch: a rough drawing representing the chief features of an object or scene and often made as a preliminary study
drawing: the art or technique of representing an object or outlining a figure, plan, or sketch by means of lines

I find a "sketching" in a sketchbook fun and relaxing. There is no pressure to please other people. I am using a sketchbook, which is relatively inexpensive, (usually) acid free, 60 lb paper with a fine tooth surface. The finished product is just for me. I find my lines are freer and there is more life in the sketch when I am not concerned about exact shape, size, colour, etc.

Most of my commissions required more detail. I use a much more expensive substrate, (usually) Arches Watercolour Hot Press 140 lb, and 100% cotton paper. The challenge is always to keep the "life and character" in the finished drawing. I would say... my finished artworks fit somewhere in the grey area between a sketch and a drawing. My finished works are not exact, but they are close.

I Walk

5/8/2020

I have always enjoyed walking. Way back when I was in my 20's, it was because I did not have a vehicle, but I eventually bought a car. I lived downtown and worked downtown, so continued to walk. And I still like to walk.

First, I think its the best exercise, you don't need any special equipment, you don't need other people, you can just walk out your door and go. Oh, and it helps to wear off the beer I drink and the chocolate I eat!
Second, I find walking alone very meditative. I prefer to walk with no headphones or cell phone, and I prefer to walk by the river and get a little taste of nature in the city. Listening to the sound of the river, the birds, and the wind....
Third, I find this time great for creative ideas. Ideas pop into your head when you are relaxed.

I love to walk. I do not love to bike. I do bike once and a while but not as enjoyable. I miss the connection with nature. So when I go for a bike ride it's nice to just sit by the river and sketch. Always have a sketchbook!

Sitting by the river sketching.

Sketching vs Drawing

I Walk

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