Charcoal Series I: Million Dollar Smile by Kurt Garrett

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 Charcoal drawing from a photo. Dimension 18" x 24".

The synthesis of a charcoal drawing can give you a first-hand look at how to transform a piece of paper into an illusion using tones and lines. I think it's funny to think that an image can be inspired from charcoal and paper. Meanwhile, I am constantly looking for ways to extend a pretty rigid approach to drawing.

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Charcoal Series I: Full Hair by Kurt Garrett

Charcoal Drawing. Dimension: 18" x 24".

This charcoal drawing moves closer to finding the essence of a portrait.Laying charcoal down in layers at times resembles painting with water colors or other wet media.

Charcoal Series I: Red Popped Lips by Kurt Garrett

Charcoal drawing, Dimension: 18" x 24".

The charcoal is not gentle compared to pencil but has a quality that allows me to sculpt the face. Additionally, naturally high contrast (chiaroscuro)  adds a dramatic effect to the subject. The red 'popped lips' is pencil but I am anxious to try the same wit colored pastel.

Charcoal Series I: Bright Eyes by Kurt Garrett

Charcoal Drawing from Photo. Dimension 18" x 24".

This is the first in a series of charcoal drawings on paper aimed at finding the characteristics and particularly the limitations of charcoal. Compared to pencil (graphite of lead), charcoal is faster but does not blend as smoothly. Charcoal gives a rougher feel to a portrait but a classical art-feel. And charcoal is messy...but worth it.