Just under 1 week to go before my new book arrives in the shops on 23 March 2017.
I can't pretend that the build up to its release isn't just a little bit exciting.
I did a quick interview last week with Pyramyd - the French publisher of the book...
The interview is available on Pyramyd's blog
English version:
Helen Birch, author of
several titles on drawing translated by Pyramyd editions, answers a few
questions ...
Why did you decide to write some
books about drawing techniques?
I’ve always been fascinated by the immediacy of drawing. The
most modest of materials can render something special. I like the diversity and
apparent ease of drawing too. Whether pencil on ordinary notepaper or more
expensive drawing kit on on specialist papers….there’s so much to see,
think about, share and experiment with.
Through my experience as an art lecturer I’ve demonstrated and
talked about drawing techniques with students. I thought that the experimental
drawing outcomes from these workshops were really exciting and that others
should see them, so I started blogging as drawdrawdraw. Producing a series of books was the next logical
step. These books have included drawings, illustrations and paintings from
international contributors and cover a wide variety of techniques.
What is your favorite drawing technique ?
I find it difficult to pinpoint just one technique!
I like such a diverse range of drawing techniques from fine line
drawings, to huge dark and messy charcoal drawings. I get a lot of satisfaction
from looking at drawings, thinking about what prompted them. I like drawings
that reveal something about the person making them – their ideas, willingness
to experiment, conviction, and depth of research. All of these
decisions can dictate which art materials an artist selects and how they are
handled and ultimately - the drawing they become.
Which artists inspire you?
Again, a difficult one. A constant is Matisse, as are the
drawings of Ingres, Walter Sickert, Paula Rego, Lucian Freud, Elizabeth Peyton and Frank
Auerbach. I also like the illustrations of Craig Thompson, Marjane Satrapi,
Raymond Briggs and Joe Sacco. This list would change if I answered the same
question a day later!
Do you have any other book projects ?
I’ve been thinking about putting together a
book about how to draw abstract forms, colours and patterns. There’s also the
potential for more books that explore other specific drawing techniques.
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| Helen Birch sketchbooks |
The interview is available in French too
