Sunday, April 11, 2010

Sketches

It's been way too long since I did any sketching. So I went to my favorite cafe last night expressly (ha ha) to do that.

Someone once said that we fall in love with our models. I feel like it's true--regardless of what a person looks like, the incredibly focused attention we give them feels like love, the way our gaze travels so slowly and intimately across their every feature, their bone structure...by the time you've finished sketching or drawing someone, you do feel something for them. Even if it was just a five-minute sketch.

The only problem with this kind of focused attention on strangers is...they notice it. People are amazingly gifted at being able to sense when they're being stared at. Hence, when sketching strangers in public, the drawing often has to be hastily aborted, leading to quite unfinished sketches. But that's part of their charm.






This guy (above) had the most incredibly flat, narrow face...



(Above) Dreadlocked manga-maker.



Origami kitten.

More art on my website: jalapfaff.com

5 comments:

Anonymous said...

These are wonderful Jala- you obviously got a " latte " good ideas and inspiration sitting at a cafe.
There seems nothing you can't do, damn the double negatives.

suzanneberry said...

Excellent sketches. The story behind them makes them even better. Beautifully done.

Karen Bruson said...

Fabulous sketches and darling Origami kitten.

Joan Breckwoldt said...

Wonderful sketches, I think they're charming too. I've done some sketching but so far not brave enough to get too close. I am inspired now though, thanks for sharing. And I love the kitty.
Joan

JANE MINTER said...

neat sketches jala ...your text made me smile... very true :) !