Rockport Texas Near Boat Docks

Not sure how I feel about this one at the moment.  I first started out with the Pilot Prera and Lexington Gray ink.  Then used the Platinum Carbon pen with Black ink.

As I view it, it's difficult to tell the difference between water and land areas.  Plus such a large area to try and cover with ink.  This sketchbook is approx 9 x 12.  Definitely would have been easier with watercolor (or even graphite) but I'm determined to continue on with my ink sketches in this sketchbook I've dedicated to straight pen and ink.

My perspective is off with eye level not being right in relation with distant water and land.  I probably should have only done the land and water area in the foreground and left the back ground off.  Live and learn :-))

Plus side..........another day of sketching - mistakes and all!

Rock Studies using Platinum Carbon Pen

Talk about an eye-opener with this pen!!!  Compared to the Pilot Prera and the Noodler's Flex using Lexington Gray ink, this pen and the black ink that comes with the pen is a real contrast.

Even in the sketchbook where my other two pens skip across the paper, this Platinum glides smoothly and evenly.  The results being bold compared to what I've been achieving thus far.

Except for the long handle, which I plan to cut down, I absolutely love how the pen handles and nib lays down ink.  Gonna be another favorite of mine once I get used to the bold darkness of the ink. 

Here's a photo I took while at the Texas Coast.  This is what I'm using as a reference for the sketches above.

Working the rocks, I find myself getting lost a bit from one rock to the next and working the lights and darks.  Just going to take more practice :-))

Beach Treasures - Shells

I'm sure most wish they could find these along the beach rather than having to go purchase at a gift shop....maybe in some areas there are people who actually do get lucky.

Thought I would try my hand at a simple beach scene.  The sand dollars I think are so neat!!!  I thought I'd add a little artistic license giving them color rather than the plain white or brownish tan tones.  Although you may not see it on screen, I also added a touch of these same colors to the star fish to help harmonize the overall scene.

First I sketched using a light touch with pen and ink using the Noodler's Flex pen.  (I'm still trying to discipline myself from using pencil and erasing....simply to help work on my confidence.)

Colors Used:  DS - RS, BS, BU, Cob Bl, Quin Rose, and New Gamboge.

#8 Round and for the sand and water I used a Terry Harrison Golden Wizard brush for better control on water/paint plus adding the streaks.

Still using my Handbook sketchbook (I'm 3/4th way through it :)