Self Portrait

I used Fisher 400 paper for this 14 x 10 inch self portrait. I started off with a watercolour underpainting, and used all sorts of pastels, pastel pencils, hard and soft pastels. Unison are my favourite soft pastels - they are so buttery and the colours so vivid.

Keeping it loose

For sketching I get inspired by Martin and
Ira

Portrait of a little dog

I've just completed this portrait as part of my 'Pet Portraits' course. It's from a photo I found online. I used Wallis paper and started off with an underpainting. I have to say, Wallis paper is so brilliant - it's definitely my favourite, which is unfortunate because you can't get it in the UK any more. You can get it shipped from the USA, but it's quite expensive.

Darks

Also trying to get my darks a lot darker... my drawings are usually too light and delicate.

Slowly

I'm slowly getting the hang of this new 'looser' style....

Loose

I've been looking at some other sketchers and have decided to experiment with a looser style, which involves holding the pencil further back from the point. I'm not sure if this is the way to achieve it.

Good company

When I'm working in my office I'm always kept company by my three friends, Chester, Molly and Binky the rabbit. If I go downstairs to eat something, they come down as well.