The idea of drawing to record and experiment with ideas is a useful, yet daunting way of communicating for a photographer such as myself. Most of my previous practice has been very practical, as i have mainly used my camera to experiment with ideas and possible compositions. I understand how drawing is able to release ideas from the mind onto paper, and is a quick way of expressing thoughts to develop, and visually see put into practice. 'Drawing is thinking, not making pictures'. This comment is an interesting one to think about when using my RVJ, as i will be drawing for my own benefit to explore and create new ideas, not to create 'art', rough sketches not perfectly drawn objects. It will be important for me to not be self conscious of how my drawings look, but to allow myself to get out of the mind set of creating perfect work, and move on from mistakes or the overall appearance of my sketch work. I have done little drawing in the past, therefore i am not expecting myself to provide any amazing sketches at first.
The above examples of sketchbooks show how drawing is used as a tool for generating ideas, and can be used for problem solving and creative play. The top example looks as if the artist is exploring possible ways/compositions of showing the girl looking at what appears to be a scary monster. It is clear to see the artist has sketched several drawings to find out how the girl should be sitting, where her arms should be, what her facial expression is, etc. There is also a couple of sketched ideas of what the scary creature will look like. The bottom example shows whole drawings of possible subjects, surroundings, or compositions. I am inspired by both pieces of work, by the idea of 'letting go' on the page, and drawing every possible idea that comes to mind. From a photography perspective I understand how I can use drawing to find out the best compositions and ideas for a photograph before actually capturing it. I will be drawing several sketches for ideas on photos for the project, and design ideas for the layout of the magazine.
Principle 5: Cultivate Reflective Practice
It is important to always reflect on your work. Asking questions, evaluate, compare/connections, contrasts etc. Using both parts of your brain is essential to keeping a general direction of work, without drawing lots of ideas and not developing from any. I understand that evaluating your playful drawing/sketches is something which needs to be done. Without concentrated thought, the sketches turn to interesting visual pages without any idea of whats actually going on. The use of text helps to explain the detail behind the sketches, and how you wish to develop. A contrast of the mind, from 'letting loose' on the paper to serious consideration of what it is saying.
Above I have shown an example cycle of the process which should be thought through when using my RVJ. The example of a sketchbook above shows an artist reflecting heavily on their sketches. There is a balance of sketches and text on the page, most likely explaining what their intentions are, and how they would like to develop. When creating my own sketches for either photographs or magazine design, I will be reflecting on my work all the time, asking myself questions as to how it can be improved, and what could be changed.
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