Sketch Book for the Artist

A UNIQUE SIGHT
This innocent yet sophisticated drawing of
boats, harbor and sea is one of many that
Alfred Wallis made from memory while sitting
at home. He was a retired Cornish fisherman

and junk dealer who began drawing at the age

of 70 "for company" after his wife died. He

used leftover ship and yacht paint with

crayons on cut-out pieces of cardboard boxes.

Five Ships in Port with Lighthouse

c. 1925-

53 / 8 x 87 / 8 in (135 x 225 mm)

ALFRED WALLIS

prefers and tells you is better. Think how much would Occasionally, I meet students struggling unhappily with a

have been lost if anyone had interfered with Alfred Wallis' particular method of drawing. Someone once told them they

personal sense of proportion and perspective in the must draw in this way, and they have never questioned why.

exquisite drawing above. As you read this book and I ask them their reasons for drawing, what they most want to

perhaps attend art classes, remember that all advice is only achieve, and which aspects of the vast wealth and diversity of

advice. After experimenting and trying each new idea, graphic language would be most appropriate to their goals,

you must decide whether to keep or discard it. Enjoy The journey of every artist demands hard work and discipline,

the control of your own journey. but it does help to set out facing in the right direction.

PROGRESSION