Stumble It!
I was reading in a magazine recently that you should always have model release forms with you if you are going to take a picture or draw someone that you see in a public place. I'm sure how practical that is in reality. I know that my models from couldn't have signed even if I had the forms with me.
I have been enjoying my mornings at the zoo while the kids are at camp. Many times we go to the zoo and just have a quick peek into the exhibits and move on, trying to make the most of our day. But knowing that I have an hour of drawing to do makes me look for a quiet spot, hopefully with a bench to sit on, in the shade, and wait to see what will present itself.
I hung around the side of the gorilla exhibit, but only managed a few quick gesture like sketches, because they were just too busy. However, given the economy of line I think I managed to get the essence of her. I also met a young artist who asked me some questions. It was very rewarding
to talk to him, and to encourage him, even if I had to be very truthful in telling him that, in fact, very few artists get rich.
There was a nearly empty seating area near the African Savannah building. I sat down to see the ostriches, and much to my surprise two zebras came walking right over to me to see what I was doing. I took some pictures and then sat down to observe and sketch them. Once again, I got the basics down after watching them for a while, but with their constant grazing, (and the ostriches flapping and running around) I had trouble getting a good look at their stripe pattern, and just did the best I could.
It's been a good week. Tomorrow is our last day, but I might come back to the zoo on my own when the kids are in school.
