Teresa Wentzler Art

And the slog continues. Sorry, I shouldn’t say things like that. But, man. Getting the art made sometimes seems like an un-ending process. Patience, grasshopper.

At this point in one of these marathon drawings, it’s necessary for me to slow down even more (!?!?!). I know, right?

Overworking happens very quickly. That point of no return: when you know you’ve pushed things just a bit too far and there’s just no fixing it? (‘Cause…well…pen and ink.) That point is rapidly approaching and I don’t want to over-shoot it.

(I have to pause here and laugh a little. I’m sure there are those who think I passed that point awhile ago! Oh well.)

Anyway, I find I’m spending almost as much time observing and comparing and identifying areas that need fine tuning as I do putting marks on paper.

I will say that I struggle with simplifying complex areas. Then, because I’ve detailed an area super intensively, I have to keep doing the same thing throughout the drawing to maintain cohesion.

I’m less than thrilled with some areas (as usual), and I’m pretty much ready to see the end of it. I should finish in the next few days.

Pressing on.

Sometimes I feel a little crazy about how I keep pushing ahead even if I’m not sure I should. Generally, I’m of the opinion that there’s always something to be learned, even if the piece isn’t a success overall. My college art professor always reminded his students: “The art is the most important thing.” I guess it stuck!

Since I’m sharing the good and not-so-great parts of my creative journey, I’ll critique the drawing next time. I’ll cover strong and weak points, and design elements.

So, I’m interested to hear how any of you decide when a piece is finished, or when it’s time to just circular file it and move on? Do you push ahead even though you’re not sure it’s worth the effort? Are you in the ‘art for art’s sake’ camp?