Drawing with Graphite

One of the things that makes a difference in the work of art is drawing practice. The more you practice the more accomplished you become. A lot of people, especially those with limited time, don't practice as much as needed because of inconvenience. When you don't have much time and yor materials are special and need to be set up, it becomes less and less likely you'll actually draw.

The old schoolboy method of drawing is the easiest way I know to practice. All you need is paper--any kind--and a common number 2 pencil and you can draw as long as both hold out. The thing about graphite and paper is that we don't put much value or importance on either one so you can forget about making "art" and just draw. These materials are cheap, easy to find, and disposable.You can give yourself permission to let go of whatever inhibits your hand and simply draw. Convenience is key.

Hoff, "Stewart Smoking," graphite on paper, 1990s

Here's a spontaneous drawing of an old friend smoking a cigar. Stewart was well over 90 but every morning after breakfast he would sit on the front porch and smoke his single cigar of the day. We were visiting so he and I spent several pleasant mornings on that porch. I sketched him very quickly one day while he ruminated on life and puffed away. I save this particular sketch because it reminds me of his puckish sense of humor and the sharp scent of tobacco smoke. A fond memory.

Another fond memory is in this drawing of a restored Ford 1950 F-1 pickup that I once owned. The old truck was painted metallic green and had a solid oak bed. Because it was an antique it had no seat belts, nor was the bench seat adjustable; it was bolted to the floor. In the end it had to be sold because there was no longer a place to store it. I drew this on a piece of printer paper one morning, just for fun. And though I no longer own the truck, the memory is mine.

For anyone who wants to practice drawing, grab a piece of paper and a pencil. Graphite is quick, cheap, and disposable. No worries.