Tuesday, April 24, 2012

The Sketch Hunter


Prague, CZ



The “The Art Spirit” by, Robert Henri belongs in every artist’s library. It was first published in 1923 and is still being printed today. I want to share a passage from the book with you.

“The sketch hunter has delightful days of drifting about among people, in and out of the city, going anywhere, everywhere, stopping as long as he likes-no need to reach any point, moving in any direction following the call of interest. He moves through life as he finds it, not passing negligently the things he loves, but stopping to know them, and to note them down in the shorthand of his sketchbook. Like any hunter he hits or misses. He is looking for what he loves, he tries to capture it. It’s found anywhere, everywhere. Those who are not hunters do not see these things. The hunter is learning to see and to understand-to enjoy.”

When I first read this book it stopped me in my tracks. The pages of the book speak deeply to me. The passion and emotion of all artists transcends time!

I have filled countless sketchbooks. I have travel a lot with my sketchbooks. I travel to teach, sketch, and explore. I want to see and understand my world. When I sketch I see, I understand. These books contain my life- joy, sorrow, achievements... and all that life has thrown me. I am a sketch hunter!

Happy Sketching!
Brenda

12 comments:

  1. Your sketch of Prague stopped me 'dead in my tracks.' The perspective, the beauty of it...amazing! I will check out the"The Art Spirit" today. Your quote is wonderful and helps me understand some of my recent sketching.

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    1. Susan, thank you! I had an amazing experience sketching from Prague to Berlin. I came home with over 50 sketches and a experience I will never forget!

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  2. THANK YOU for that post. I have journaled for years (20+) but have never included sketches. Now I think I'll switch to a watercolor notebook and journal AND do simple watercolor sketches. What a gift would that be to my children someday? To now only see my life through my own words, but my eyes! You continue to be a blessing and inspiration Brenda; thank you!

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    1. sorry for the typos. Was typing quickly out of excitment. I meant "to NOT only see my life..."

      I think you got that....

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    2. Brian, I love to hear comments like yours! I agree the sketch journals would be a precious gift to leave behind for your children. Each book is a little piece of yourself.
      Happy Sketching!

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  3. I've been reading this book recently, so it's interesting to read your post. Recomended by a friend, I can't agree more--it speaks to me!! My art is such a part of me now and the sketchbook let's me take it everywhere! With the nice weather coming I'm itching to get out there soon--maybe I'll see you sometime as we travel near and far doing what we do--

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    1. Michelle, sounds like you have a wandering eye, too. I am delighted you have the book in your library...a must for every artist.
      Happy sketching!

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  4. "The Art Spirit" was written by Robert Henri.

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    1. Lee, Thank you! I don't know how I forgot that important bit of information!

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  5. Hi Brenda..
    I have ordered the book (used) and will look forward to a good summer read.
    Thanks for being so generous with sharing.

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  6. Hello Brenda

    I'm too a hunter of sketches .....From France!

    Happy sketching

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