Bees and Clover and Drawing Every Day

I have been sketching in the book (pictured above) for the last few weeks. This month the materials to use are marker pens and black micron pens.  I have looked at some of my 'efforts' with an overly critical eye.  I can't help it as it is ingrained in my nature. 

I thought I would share one of my quick sketches.  I had to draw bees hovering over clover.  I made quick loose, sketchy marks and am pleased with the overall result.  Sometimes I don't need to be painstakingly tied to detail and perfectionism.  Sometimes I can covey what I need to with just a few pen marks. 

 

A poem and a Flower

At the bottom of the garden
Something pink caught my eye
And as I approached it - my oh my
Self sown by nature
It bloomed overnight
So in the morning would bring its delight
A frilly pink poppy slowly unfurling
And life still goes on
And the World keeps on turning

Simone Whipp June 2017

Maybe it's Because I'm a Londoner

Maybe it's because I'm a Londoner that I feel deeply emotional when wicked people cause harm and terror to people in MY City.  Whatever people do to us they can't take away our spirit and determination to carry on.  We will not be thwarted or have our freedom and democracy taken from us by evil beings who wish us ill will and harm.

Kawaii Cacti and a Prayer Plant

I was watching a YouTube drawing prompt to draw kawaii cacti.  By the time I finished drawing I thought it would be a good idea to get some cacti plants for my kitchen window sill.  I did grow and care for cacti plants when I was a teenager and remembered that they need very little maintenance.  At last I could have a houseplant that would live longer than 5 minutes!

Anyway, once looking at the range of cacti offered at the store I wasn't very inspired or impressed.  I then saw a beautiful orchid but the flowers looked as though they were on their way out and I noticed a strange looking pest on the leaves.  My attention then turned to an interesting patterned leaf on what was called a prayer plant.  At £3.00 it was cheaper than a bunch of flowers so I swooped it off the shelf and returned home pleased with my purchase.

After a little research I found that the plant is a perennial called maranta leucaneura or is it calathea?  More research needed I think! It is called a prayer plant because in the evening and on cloudy days the plants hold their leaves together like hands in prayer.  I am looking forward to seeing this! 

Cute Animal Drawings

I have been trying to use my sketchbook this week.   Here is a glimpse of a page on cute animals.  I have been reading about creating volume in work, not perfection.  Picasso was a prolific producer of art work but only a few of his paintings became famous (as far as I am aware).  I am trying to concentrate on daily work - good, bad or indifferent.

Although I wish I could draw photo-realistic images I usually end up drawing something cute and unrealistic - a bit like me!!!

Elderflower

The elderflower is at its peak beauty at the moment.  Frothy flower heads illuminating the night garden.

Soon the flowers will be replaced by jewel coloured berries.  The birds will have a feast on them.

On the ground, they resemble wedding confetti - so much preferable to dried rice or paper cut outs.

Thank You

Thank you to all my blogging friends for your kind and supportive comments on my previous posts.  The sun is shining today.  I feel much better.