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The Story Behind 'A Man of Prayer,' my Smithsonian Portrait of President Jimmy Carter
Using Art Mapping and the technique of the Old Masters to tell the story of an American Hero and the 39th President of the United States.
10 min read


Lazy Painting Techniques: Get Back to Work Without Leaving Your Spot
The reducing lens, a useful and "lazy" resource for painting - step back without moving & prioritize perspective.
1 min read


Simplifying Charcoal: My Favorite Brands and Why
I've simplified my charcoal experience by choosing top brands Winsor Newton's Vine & Marie's Willow for charcoal - here's why!
2 min read


Micron Pens: A Watercolor Artist's Favorite Tool, Pen & Ink
We love Micron pens! They're archival, waterproof & perfect for layering over watercolor. My favorite is size 5 for detail & bold lines.
1 min read


Painting Technique: Humanism with Donatello & Mary Magdalene with Giotto's & Darker Farther Away
Donatello's "Mary Magdalene" embodies early Renaissance humanism, expressing emotion through texture & expressive mark-making.
2 min read


Part 6 of 7: Varying Your Edges Lord Ribblesdale Sargent, Analyzing Lord Ribblesdale
Uncovering John Sargent's secrets: his edge work technique and masterful use of texture to create depth & contrast.
2 min read


Tips and Techniques: How to Use Powdered Graphite and Nylon Charcoal Balls with Bristol Paper
Discover the versatility of Bristol paper: perfect for sketches, experimentation & artistic expression.
2 min read


Sketch Drawing to Explain Giotto's 3D Mass & Solidity - Gradually Lighter to Darker, Farther Away
As you wander through the grand halls of art museums, surrounded by masterpieces from around the world, it's easy to feel a sense of...
2 min read


Softening Edges by Cross Hatching, Analyzing Lord Ribblesdale with a Rosemary Brush
Softening edges with a round brush creates subtle contrast & direction, inviting viewer focus while balancing bold strokes.
2 min read


Strathmore 300 Series Paper: The Artist's Best Friend for Sketching and Experimentation
Master sketching & charcoal art with Strathmore 300 Series paper! Forgiving, erasable & perfect for quick studies & exploration.
2 min read
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