Warm-Up Sketches

I’ve been getting into the practice of doing warm-up sketches before I sit down and do work.

I really like doing this because it lets me practice drawing silhouettes and spirits…

one-eyed spirit in silhouette

 

Or I could practice drawing and cross-hatching in pen and ink, while also practicing referencing a collection of photo references…

51414_Tribal_Woman

Or refresh my memory on using India ink and brush…

india ink sketches of tigers in water

Or I can practice some costume and character designs…

sketch of woman in goth assassin outfit.

My point is, art is a skill, and to keep that skill fresh, I have to practice.

With warm-up sketches, I do use reference photos sometimes. I’m ok with this.

Using references actually helps me include them in my visual memory.

So next time I draw something and I’m away from the computer, I can rely on my visual memory to help me.

It’s handy!