What kind of an artist am I?

When I started drawing, everything was done using a single graphite pencil, using pressure to achieve contrast. I then discovered fine line ink pens, which allowed me to draw in great detail without having to sharpen my pencil every 5-minutes! Various grades of pencil were also introduced, to attain deep shadows and striking contrasts.

The next logical step was to use watercolour, to add a splash of colour. I quite liked the idea of pen and wash, where I could sketch something in ink and apply a loose wash of colour. That didn’t really work for me, as I love detail and the challenges it presents. When people look at my work and say, “I thought it was a photograph!”, that’s the greatest complement I can receive.

So, am I a watercolour artist? I would likely answer yes to that question, but I also like to introduce other mediums to achieve the result I’m looking for. These mediums can include gouache, pen brushes and Posca pens in flat and metallic finishes. I can’t resist visiting art shops and buying something new to try.

I have been known to complete a pencil drawing, then decide to erase the shading and apply watercolour instead, as with The Crooked House. I was pleased with the pencil drawing, but the colour version brings it to life and focusses the attention on the prime subject.

Maybe ‘Constantly Evolving’ would be the best description of what I do. Please keep visiting this site or follow me on Facebook (Art by Colin May) to see what I’m up to.