The characteristics of wood can dramatically affect a work or art. Knot holes, grain and the shape and texture of the wood itself are all important factors in determining composition. Combining the natural characteristics of wood with my wildlife images makes powerful and soulful colored pencil images. The final rendition is the product of many hours studying the characteristics of the wood and it’s influence on the colored pencil and creating the various colors.
Unlike painting where you can paint over a mistake, pencil is very unforgiving. The compositional elements and layers of the pencil must be determined before the piece is started. It often takes the layering of three to four Prismacolor pencils to create one desired color. The painstaking layering technique produces the depth and realistic quality of my work. It requires ten to twelve layers of pencil to achieve the exceptional realism I’m looking for.
My unique technique and observation skills are key in creating such realistic and accurate renditions; it helps me discern the anatomy of my subjects which is essential in creating accurate portrayals. I have found that such depth and detail can be achieved through the use of pencil more than any other medium.
“No other artist has developed the technique of using colored pencil on wood
to such an elevated level.”
