Creating art is a journey, and every piece begins with understanding its subject. In Part Two of my mixed media series, I focus on a detailed charcoal sketch of the Raft Style “Goyomatsu” White Pine. This step helps me connect with the tree and refine the vision for my final artwork.
To start, I revisit the rule of thirds, a fundamental tool for achieving balance in composition. Positioning key elements accordingly, I can thereby ensure harmony within the piece. Next, I define the trunk line, evaluating what works and what needs adjustment. This exploration allows me to make thoughtful decisions about the tree’s structure.
Moving forward, I lay out the secondary branches while considering traditional bonsai styling principles. These branches play a crucial role in conveying movement and natural growth. Then, I explore the base of the trunk, or nabari, observing how it meets the ground and interacts with the clam-shell pot. The final stage of the sketch focuses on the foliage mass and texture, bringing the tree to life.
Each step in this process is intentional. Sketching allows me to refine my approach before committing to the final mixed media piece. This study will guide me as I transition to pastel drawing in Part Three.
Why Sketching Matters in the Artistic Process
Sketching is the bridge between inspiration and execution. It allows an artist to observe, analyze, and interpret before committing to a final piece. For this artwork, I needed to study the bonsai tree in depth—its structure, movement, and balance—so that my final mixed media composition would not just depict the tree but capture its essence.
By creating this charcoal study, I familiarize myself with the trunk line, explore how it interacts with the ground and pot, and refine the branching structure. These foundational decisions will guide the next phase—bringing the tree to life in pastel.
Building on Composition: The Rule of Thirds
A strong composition is key to creating a compelling artwork. I begin this sketch by referencing the Rule of Thirds, a classic compositional tool that ensures balance and harmony within a piece. This method helps me position the tree in a way that feels both natural and aesthetically pleasing.
Breaking Down the Sketching Process
In the video, I take you step by step through the process of sketching the tree:
- Defining the trunk line – Establishing the flow and energy of the tree.
- Laying out the secondary branches – Exploring how the tree’s movement is expressed through its structure.
- Outlining the base (Nabari) and pot – Connecting the tree to its environment.
- Shaping the foliage mass and texture – Giving the tree depth and life.
By carefully working through each element, I ensure that the final artwork is not just an accurate representation but a dynamic and thoughtful interpretation of the tree’s unique form.
Looking Ahead: From Sketch to Pastel
This charcoal sketch is not the end—it is a stepping stone. In Part Three of the series, I will take this study and translate it into pastel, further refining the tree and deepening its presence within the composition.
Join the Journey
Art is about process, exploration, and continuous learning. I invite you to follow along as I document this creative journey, sharing insights into how an artwork takes shape from concept to completion.
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Have you ever used sketching as part of your creative process? Let me know in the comments!