Page 48 - Australian_How_To_Paint

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certainly inspired me with mine, as I
find even the simplest sketch can look
quite stunning when properly framed.
As mentioned previously I usually
have a sketch book with me whether
out and about for work or on a family
trip, sketching records that moment in
time, which, along with a photo, can
provide you with a valuable reference
source for future studio work.
On our last trip along the Murray
River in South Australia aboard the
elegant Murray Princess you would
have found me on a quiet moment
sketching on the river bank or tucked
into a quiet corner of the boat. Many
enquiries from fellow passengers and
crew about my work convinced me that
a website would enable me to advertise
my work via the Internet, and so with
the invaluable help from my wife and
sons the website came to life. The value
of this site cannot be overstated - you
only have to look at this article - a direct
result of the editor viewing my site.
For many artists, drawing would
be considered a stepping stone, a
prelude to starting a painting and
this is understandable, but for others,
drawings have a life of their own
and can stand alone as finished
artwork in their own right.
Drawing gives you freedom to roam,
a pencil and pad is all you need, and
you can lean against a wall, in a pub,
on a train, you can always draw.
It breaks down barriers, out in the
country, suspicion soon turns to interest
once the locals know what you’re doing.
In the city it’s, “Oh that’s good” and
then they are on their way about their
business. You can close your sketchbook
anytime you like, or open it to show
others an insight into your world.
Happy sketching!
Derek is mostly self-taught but
has a TAFE qualification- advanced
certificate in art design and drawing.

His works are in many private
and public collections. He currently
has several items on display
at the Kingfisher Gallery in
West Perth. His website is:
www.wannerooheritageart.com.au O