The first week of class went great and I am excited for the next seven sessions. This week's main points:
1) No matter what, make a deal with yourself that you will make even one mark in your sketchbook every single day. It's about consistency and not quality. Don't wait for that special "day off" from work, or that three day weekend, to block out big special blocks of time. Keep your sketchbook with you and make sure you open it daily and simply start drawing something. Even hatch marks, circles...something in it. The next thing you know, that one will be full and you'll be hitting the art supply store for another.
2) Your physiology; the way you are put together, your arm, YOUR wrist, is half of what will make you a unique cartoonist. Consciously practice drawing but don't overthink or force your lines. Don't try to draw like someone else. Just draw. Discussion examples included Ellen Forney's work and that of Bill Watterson and an excercise borrowed from cartooning instruction legend Jack Hamm was shared. Griff also shared John Callahan 's story.
3) Various idea generators or "springboards", for when you are stuck for something to sketch, were discussed and the tried and true mix and match index card imagery / caption exercise was carried out, in search of those unintentional but magically humorous juxtapositions.
4) A large sampling of currently available pens, inks and other tools were passed around and demonstrated.
5) Recommended outside activities: sketch everyday but apply conscious learning (as opposed to doodling while on your phone) and watch the documentary FUNNY BUSINESS.
1) No matter what, make a deal with yourself that you will make even one mark in your sketchbook every single day. It's about consistency and not quality. Don't wait for that special "day off" from work, or that three day weekend, to block out big special blocks of time. Keep your sketchbook with you and make sure you open it daily and simply start drawing something. Even hatch marks, circles...something in it. The next thing you know, that one will be full and you'll be hitting the art supply store for another.
2) Your physiology; the way you are put together, your arm, YOUR wrist, is half of what will make you a unique cartoonist. Consciously practice drawing but don't overthink or force your lines. Don't try to draw like someone else. Just draw. Discussion examples included Ellen Forney's work and that of Bill Watterson and an excercise borrowed from cartooning instruction legend Jack Hamm was shared. Griff also shared John Callahan 's story.
3) Various idea generators or "springboards", for when you are stuck for something to sketch, were discussed and the tried and true mix and match index card imagery / caption exercise was carried out, in search of those unintentional but magically humorous juxtapositions.
4) A large sampling of currently available pens, inks and other tools were passed around and demonstrated.
5) Recommended outside activities: sketch everyday but apply conscious learning (as opposed to doodling while on your phone) and watch the documentary FUNNY BUSINESS.