It has been an incredibly productive period for me recently, causing me to reflect on the symbiotic relationship between an artist and energy. Am I more productive because I am observing and inspired by energy and movement? Or is it an increase in my own energy levels that enable me to see and appreciate my surroundings more?
The pieces and sketches I have chosen to feature this month reflect this unexpected productivity and encompass a range of media, subject matters and locations.
At the Sainsbury Centre, which I am fortunate enough on my doorstep, I deliberately chose to sketch the more famous pieces to see what makes them popular. I also wanted to see if I could come to a decision about the long-running dispute in the art world as to whether Degas’ Little Dancer really could achieve that particular pose. Degas was really ahead of his time, the sculpture dates from 1879 and his addition of the tutu and hair-ribbon on the sculpture is very pop-art.
Meanwhile at the Norwich 20 Art Group I am getting back to basics skills with some life drawing workshops. Life drawing always used to be one of the basic tenets of art school training and one of its great disciplines. It is a thrill to be able to capture the human form in all its beautiful shapes and sizes. Although I used to teach it for many years I am definitely a bit rusty, so one must never become complacent!
Meanwhile back on home I have continued my love affair with the horse racing on ITV4 – not gambling, just drawing! I adore horses and have a real urge to draw horses in real life. I must sort a trip to Newmarket Races!
Work in progress also includes this view from a bird hide near Great Yarmouth, which I am interested in so far, particularly the serendipitous movement of the paint.
My final piece to showcase this month is this drawing of a lapwing wing, given to me by my daughter Antonia. A barn owl had torn off the wing – nature is undoubtedly red in tooth and claw – and I felt I should pay homage to such a beautiful creature.
Diana Lamb 