Sketchisode One: Channeling Stress into Drawing

Like many artists, my collection of sketchbooks is, well... extensive. I'll admit, I sometimes jump the gun, buying new ones before the previous gets its due. Some are still brand-new, eagerly awaiting their first doodle. Although I ambitiously categorize them – Pencils Only, Colors Only, Mixed Media, you name it – they tend to devolve into books of artistic chaos.

Tip of the iceberg.

I thought, why not offer an inside peek? Not only could this give fellow artists and enthusiasts a dose of inspiration (I hope), but it also nudges me to sift through, retrace my creative journey, and even unearth forgotten gems. For sanity's sake, I'll be sharing a few drawings per post – or we'd be scrolling endlessly!

So, let’s kick off my brand-new Sketchbook Series. Drumroll, please... 🥁

The first sketchbook on display is a recent buy from Soho Art Materials in New York. Though I snatched it up with glee, it took a 6-month of collecting dust on my shelf before I ripped it open. In my excitement, I might've discarded the packaging a tad prematurely. But if I were a betting person, I'd wager it’s this one. Big shoutout to Kunst & Papier – their sketchbook quality is top-tier, the paper texture is sublime, smooth with just the right amount of tooth. Though it feels a bit more lightweight than your usual watercolor paper, it holds wet media pretty well, especially gouache.

Committing to a new sketchbook always feels monumental (and sparks a smidge of guilt). Reflecting on its inaugural drawing, I recall a stress-riddled day. Seeking solace, I ventured to James Braddock Park in North Bergen, armed with this fresh sketchbook and my trusty bag'o'colors, brimming with Caran d’ache pencils, markers, and more.

Relaxing by the Lake

My first piece? A raw, emotion-driven depiction of the serene lake, where I might've channeled a tad too much vigor. Being that I was trying to cope with stress that day, I ended up drawing very aggressively, taking out my anger on this poor sketchbook – that did nothing to deserve such abuse.

La Perla, Puerto Rico

That initial burst of creativity inspired me further. I revisited a 2015 snapshot of La Perla in Old San Juan, Puerto Rico, attempting to capture its essence with the same frenetic fervor. The outcome? A musical riot of colors and movement that is begging me to paint it… one of these days.

The Rijks

Switching gears, here's a rendition of the Rijksmuseum in Amsterdam – I worked to capture the architectural nuances and intricate patterns while still trying to retain that expressive line.

The Barnes Foundation

Next up, the Barnes Foundation in Philadelphia. Drawing live in such a vibrant space made my strokes more spontaneous, capturing the room's unique vibe.

Till next time…

So, if you're wondering about this book’s theme: It's Markers + Color Pencils + Whatever Emotion I'm Channeling That Day. With a dozen (or more, who's counting?) sketchbooks in play, I have to differentiate somehow, right? I've only begun sharing my collection, and every sketchbook has its own story, rhythm, and character. With more art, insights, and of course, sketches on the horizon, I hope you'll be back for the next sketchisode.