My life drawing class with Jim Morphemes is sadly winding down, I’ve grown accustomed to my regular sessions with a live model and I will miss that . I will also miss Jim, he is a heck of a nice guy and a great deal of fun to chat with. Thankfully there is a Life Drawing II.
Our next to last assignment is to produce a drawing of hands and feet, so the above is my offering. As with most of the assignments given I have taken the opportunity to benefit my studio practice in general and this assignment is no different. I have wanted to explore the similarities and differences between real flesh and blood and that of the antique- namely Roman works for some time but have never really taken the time to do so properly. I am far from the first artist to do this, my great hero Nicolas Poussin (1594-1665) avidly emulated the ruins being unearthed in Rome seeking to comprehend their beauty and power. I have always admired how so many of Poussin’s figures possess a certain stiffness, possessing a theatrical formality, a chill even and I would venture it has much to do with his study of the marbles. Folks rant and rave over the dirty feet of Carravagio’s peasants ( a contemporary of Poussin) but for my money, give me the gods of Nicolas. The following is a study by Poussin taken after the antique now in the Musee Conde, Chantilly, France.
I still haven’t picked up a brush after my critique. I don’t want to think that I am still rattled , much has been demanded of my time in the domestic sphere, household duties, the beasties, homework assignments. But I am anxious and will just need to jump in at some point and try anew. I’m told my Seizing Sanctimonium is SO close to being a worthwhile painting, but now I fear I haven’t the tools or the understanding to bring it to completion. That I guess is where faith comes in. I have however put together a self portrait (part of the final project for Jim’s class) and it makes me chuckle, hoping you like it.
Until next time, be well, LG
Boondocks Babylon 
Leonard, these are amazing! I love the portrait as well. Please don’t let some uptight jerks from a crit hold any sway over you. A crit that is that bad can only come from people who are awful inside.
Anyway, it’s been a while since I’ve commented here, but I have been following along and quietly cheering you on. Sending you best wishes and hoping you’ll be back in the studio tomorrow!
Jodi, it is SO nice to hear from you. I’ve been negligent with my online friends , so happy you are well and productive . Thank you for your vigil , it means a lot knowing someone I admire is watching my slow struggle .
Be well friend ,
Lg