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Your blog is insane. And inspiring.

For a little acorn, a little comment. Good!

Thank you, guys.
This will be explained soon, as the project progresses.

Cheers x

Hope it was cathartic! You could do worse than Carlos and the lads.

Ain't that the truth, Dinahmow! Love this one, Andrea...:)

This is a great sketch. It reminds me of an old friend who used to write stuff on slips of paper and put them in a box deep in the closet so she would remove them from her head. I can't for the life of me remember what it is she put up there, though, so that memory was useless. I could also relate to some of your boxes which was scary. I'm used to "cute". Welcome back for the circus!

That actually gave me a shiver! Do you feel better now?

That's such an amazing sketch. Super powerful.

Thanks guys, yes, it's a dark place - under my bed!

Dan, I love that idea. Now that would make a great drawing. Dark, yes, but I don't think it's such a bad thing, emracing the darkness.

Cheers!

I love this drawing every time i look at it i can feel everything you were trying to get across you are a great artist.

That table is awesome.

Thank you!

I love your work, this is how I would love to be able to sketch. Though I will not be commenting on all you posts I will be looking at each one.

Hi there excellent blog! Does running a blog such as this take a massive amount work?
I have absolutely no expertise in computer programming however I was hoping to start my own blog
in the near future. Anyways, should you have any ideas or tips for
new blog owners please share. I know this is off subject but I just needed to ask.
Kudos!

Feel free to visit my website: blog.lishin.tcc.edu.tw

Thanks so much, Polly. I remember looking at other artists work when I started out and thinking 'I want to sketch like that'. I never achieved drawing like them, but somehow found my own thing.

Cheers.

Congratulations on being included - well deserved it is too.

Well done! And what a sweetie, to be your page turner!

Brilliant work Andrea, it looks fabulous, Well Done, I hope it brings you much joy, such lovely illustrations. :)

I ordered this book from Amazon and it arrived today. I saw your sketches in it, very nice.

I, too, love this book. It is so inspiring, and I have already lost hours pouring over the art and stories. I am so glad your amazing work is a part of this book - most deservedly so. :)) Thank you for sharing your art; it inspires and motivates me to pick up my own pen.

I, too, own and love this book - it is filled with inspiration, from the art to the narrative, i have already lost hours pouring over he pages. Your place I the volume is most deserved, and the spreads are beautiful. :)) Thank you for sharing your art, and for all of the inspiration and motivation it provides for so many of us.

That does look like an amazing book- congratulations to you on having your work included!

Thank you, so much guys. I feel honoured to be included in such a gorgoeus book.

Excellent! I am so happy for you!

Tower Bridge. And I love it!

Tower Bridge. And I love it!

I LOVE this, so clever.

I think it is Tower Bridge but not entirely sure myself!

thats bloody brilliant, I love it!

So smart, I love it! My partner is telling me London Bridge is in America, some rich guy bought it thinking it was Tower Bridge, he bought the wrong one, and after all that it didn't fit!

also on
www.bazaartales.com

My guess is Tower Bridge. I think London Bridge fell down. Or it's currently falling down. I heard it in a song once.

The red pens are cool. I really like the idea.

Yeah, that's Tower Bridge and it looks fantastic!

Thanks, folks.

You know, the last time is was in London I stayed in a hotel that was on the doorstep of London Bridge (you can see a drawing I made, of one of the souvenirs I bought whilst there, in the last post, in Danny's book) and it looked absolutely nothing like this. Yep, it's definitely Tower Bridge. Apparently, this is a common mistake.

And, yes, London Bridge's only fame is that it's falling down. Although, it looked fine when I was there.

Cheers, my dears.

Yay, Andrea! I'm so glad!

I guess it's not only a matter of confidence, but also of letting your art and your love for it grow in a way that you can't help drawing no matter where you are. Makes me think of how different those drawings may be if those people hadn't been involved in the process.

I guess it's not only a matter of confidence, but also of letting your art and your love for it grow in a way that you can't help drawing no matter where you are. Makes me think of how different those drawings may be if those people hadn't been involved in the process.

Good for you for being so brave and forging ahead even when it wasn't comfortable!

Congratulations Andrea!
What a sense of freedom,no?
Fantastic portraits you've got.

Lovely sketches.

I think groups like Urban Sketchers and participating in SketchCrawls has helped my confidence for drawing in public.

wow. well done, love the drawings. I'm still horrified of drawing in public but perhaps one day ...

Hi Andrea! My name is Jenea and I am Sketch Illustrator too! I really like your greats and funny sketches, BUT MORE i APPRECIATE YOUR ENTHUSIASM!!! It's very important to work with big pleasure! Sincerely to say, sometimes I am worry about people who saw that I draw him, but i think it is no big problem - because with time this fear will pass!

Wow, your sketches are fantastic- I can't wait to have that kind of confidence (both in terms of drawing style and public sketching!). Your travel journal is just amazing!

(http://w-nder.blogspot.co.uk- if you have any tips on my sketches-I'd be incredibly greatful!)

Your story about drawing in public is inspirational. Everyone who is a reluctant public "draw-er" should read your comments and take heart.

sehr guter Beitrag

love it. good work

i think you'd like my artwork...
http://funnymanwithdogeyesandahangingtongue.blogspot.com/

Wish I had your confidence to pack a page so full of sketches as you do. Great blog!

such lovely and lively

such lovely and lively

Great blog and wonderfull drawings. I do not have the patience I see in your drawings. I wrote about drawing in public on my blog two years ago. http://elkedagtelt.wordpress.com/2011/02/13/will-the-person-i-draw-not-be-annoyed-that-i-stare-at-her/

Your work is incredible! It's creative, exciting, speaks to the viewer, has excellent composition and is so beautifully rendered! I hope everything goes well for you today!

Love the jewellery flotsam. And what a great article, congratulations! :)

Very rarely do I do the commute into London, but this morning I did and picked up a copy of the Metro. Glad I did as immediately fell in love with your style. Superb. You've made my day / week / year :)

Thank you, guys.

Why am I so negative? Today turned out to be a good day. Not only did i coplete my tax returns (which is such a weight lifted) but also I sold a lot of work.

Thank you so much, Simon. I'm ost pleased that you made that commute today.

Cheers!

I read the article on my way to work. I recognised your pictures before I saw your name. Well done. (Edinburgh to Glasgow train)

My pleasure. Please do let me know if you and when you have any others for sale.

Congratulations on the article! Your work is amazing.

Thanks, folks.

Hope you have recieved your drawings now Simon? Can I get an email address for you? you can send it via Etsy.

Wow, AnneMarie, it must have made its way from London?

Cheers, all.

The article was in our local Metro, so everyone would have seen it :)

Oh, right, AnneMarie, so it wasn't just in the London Metro then? Thanks x

Oh my, Andrea. How amazingly flattering that poem is. To hear how another experiences your artwork would be something so special. That certainly is a poem, a gift to treasure.

That IS a lovely poem! Very talented writer! Maybe you two should team up for a joint show some day.

That IS a lovely poem! Very talented writer! Maybe you two should team up for a joint show some day.

what a lovely poem! and what a precious gift that was for you, a true treasure. thank you for sharing it with us.

what a lovely poem! and what a precious gift that was for you, a true treasure. thank you for sharing it with us.

ps: love the drawing of "little things" as well .. so charming ;)

That's so beautiful and awesome!

Thanks, folks.
Yes, I was very touched. I love it. Cheers.

Your drawings are wonderful! I'd love to fill a whole wall in my house with them!

Your drawings are wonderful! I'd love to fill a whole wall in my house with them!

Found your blog through Chris Murray's and your work is brilliant. Will be following your blog with interest

just seen the amazing three coloured pencil drawing after all the years ive followed your work i missed that its superb

after all the years of looking at your amazing work i have just for the first time seen the three coloured pencil drawing its superb

I can see why all the favoriting. These are great. I love the shoes. And the tin-type pic. But they are all wonderful.

Thank you, guys. You are most kind.

I do find it funny when I come across an artist whose work was the same for the entire length of their life. It's good to mix it up, go through different 'periods' if you will and play with different materials.

Look forward to seeing what happens.

I don't suppose most of us mind how you do it ...just so long as you do it!
Nice to see you back at it, Andrea.
Cheers!

i have to say i have only started following your drawings knowing who you are for the last 5 or 6 months having run across you on the internet. But i have seen your work for years and very much enjoyed the detail you put into each piece. The ability to draw what you see so well is truly a gift and i thank you for sharing it with me.

i have to say i have only started following your drawings knowing who you are for the last 5 or 6 months having run across you on the internet. But i have seen your work for years and very much enjoyed the detail you put into each piece. The ability to draw what you see so well is truly a gift and i thank you for sharing it with me.

I love the little whirligig on the end of the typewriter barrel! Cute little detail!

I love the little whirligig on the end of the typewriter barrel! Cute little detail!

Can't wait to get my copy! I saw your drawings in there, so rich as always, look forward to seeing them on paper.

Congratulations-- I've pre-ordered mind already!
---Laura

I want one too I've been popping around seeing all the other familiar faces with spots between the covers Danny has a lot of good company

I just received my copy, and was so thrilled to see your brilliant work included. I love owning your zines, and am so inspired by your incredible drawings.

Congratulations!

I have come across your blog and love your work. Don't seem to be able to follow you, but will still pop over occasionally

I have come across your blog and love your work. Don't seem to be able to follow you, but will still pop over occasionally

congratulations my copy should be here any day now.

I'm soooo looking forward to this book! But - having to wait until March? *sob*

Thrilled for you Andrea! That is so great! I have several of Danny's books already.. can't wait to get this one now.. and to see which of your travel drawings he chose for the book. Big congratulations to you! Tim @poetreats

Thrilled for you Andrea! That is so great! I have several of Danny's books already.. can't wait to get this one now.. and to see which of your travel drawings he chose for the book. Big congratulations to you! Tim @poetreats

Congratulations! I can't wait to receive my copy and get a peek inside.

Congratulations! Well deserved!

Thank you thank you thank you!

I'm thrilled to be involved. I should also have mentioned that I piched this photo from danny's blog. I havent got my copy yet, it's making it's way across the pond as I type.

Cheers, guys. Can't wait to see some of you in there too.

This is going to sound a little bizarre (you might not even believe me) but what the hell...

I remember 'borrowing' one of Danny Greggory's books from the artroom library at school years ago; and I recognised a lot of names, but I remember being disappointed that yours wasn't one of them! I always thought your work would have been a perfect fit, and I honestly thought that book would be made so much better if your work had been a part of it! So saying, I'm delighted that it's happened! I'll have to get my hands on a copy soon!
Many congratulations!

That is so sweet 'Anonymous', I'm really touched. And funnily enough, my copy arrived about an hour ago. It's absolutely amazing. Thanks again, you, and the book, have made my day.

I'm so glad you drew. That's most definitely a word in MY vocabulary! And I love this drawing! Wow! I can see the passion you had for your craft in every part of it. I want to learn photoshop too, but for illustration reasons. How do you know if somebody is using your artwork without permission? I have my stuff on about 6 different sites, and don't check them very often... but I never see my artwork popping up any place else. I guess I'm not the one to give advice, but I'd love to receive some too!

Andrea, I don't know anything about photoshop. But I do know that people could lift your drawings and enlarge them. Not the same as hi-res, but if thieves are only after cheap knock-offs ... There is a way to put a watermark on your work and you probably have the programme for that. I'm sure someone else can help there!
Anyway, it's lovely to see you back in the saddle.700.Way to go!

Tough call about image size. This one looks ok in the blog, but is not sharp enough to read the text or really appreciate your incredible attention to detail (at least viewing on an iPad). I guess you could watermark your images before posting, but of course that would impact the presentation. Never been a big fan of watermarks.
Been following and enjoying your work for awhile, btw. Thanks.

Katherine, the thing is that you never know unless somebody tells you. Because people who know my work have pointed it out I've found my drawings on tote bags, mugs and posters. They are mainly in eastern Europe and Russia and there's not really anyway of stopping them do it. I do contact them but get no reply, so unless I make my images small enough so they can't be used.

Photoshop is going to take some time!!

Cheers.

Thanks, guys.

Yep, that's my worry that they are not as sharp, I do want people to read all the notes. It's a difficult one. I'm not a fan of watermarks either. But, maybe that is the way forward. Hmmmmm. Thanks for the input. I appreciate it.

Cheers.

Andrea, People can still lift this drawing . From my browser I was able to increase the size and find both a "save" and "print" command easily (I didn't do either of course). You should be able to put a watermark on your work in PhotoShop, which would be visible on the drawing in a browser, and would make any image a bit less desirable. You can't put it on a mug with a watermark and expect folks to buy it.

I've seen a number of discussions on various art pages on the web that focus on how to protect one's art work. This problem of stealing artwork concerns artists everywhere. I have never read a good solution to the problem, either. Watermarking is the only way I've heard of (besides dragging someone to court) as a good solution.

As usual, the drawing is lovely. It's a shame that people don't respect artists enough to keep their hands off!

Oh dear. Wrote up a longish comment and when I got to this point, it was gone. Well, it was too long anyway.

This problem of stealing artwork on the web is one I've seen on a gazillion art fora -- and no one seems to have a good solution other than watermarking. You should be able to watermark your work with Photoshop very easily.

From a browser it is possible to both enlarge your drawing and save/print it -- it's the nature of the beast. People who have no morals will steal anything, and copyright laws don't faze them. Although watermarking will 'show' it will stop your images from being used commercially.

Keep up the good work. Photoshop is a lot of fun -- I've used it for a long time to clean up old photos and process new ones. Avail yourself of Adobe's help, and search for tutorials, of which there are a gazillion. One really terrific site is lynda.com. She's been working with software and doing tutorials literally for years. And adobe's help is very good as well.

Congratulations, you are an inspiration, just got "An Illustrated Journey" I very much enjoyed reading your section.

Andrea, I love, love , love your art. I could not read your "thoughts" in this drawing though - too small. Maybe you could enlarge just parts of the drawings in separate pictures?

I don't know if this will be helpful, but you probably know a really good printable piece is going to be at least 300dpi. 72dpi is considered sufficient for screen viewing. So I've always made my image 72dpi (but retained the dimensions I want) when I plan to post it online. That doesn't mean it's no longer printable, but it certainly won't print nicely, thus making it less desirable for stealing.

well, half the fun of looking at your drawings is inspecting every little detail and every nook and cranny. so i'd vote for the watermark, even though i don't particularly like those. but i see that as less intrusive on your drawings than not being able to view the fabulous details of your drawings. just my two cents worth ;)

Try resizing to 800 px on the long side ... big enough to enjoy.

Andrea! This is gooorgeous. Really. So happy you were able to make time to really draw...would you send some of that over my way?

I'm so sorry to hear about your drawings being used without your permission. I wish I had some advice, but I struggle with this same issue too. I detest watermarks, but is this what its going to have to come to?

I look forward to checking back in here and seeing what others suggest.

This beautiful drawing is the one that brought me, for the first time, to your site, and it WAS disappointing to not be able to read the text, especially as I could relate so well to the concept.
I use Photoshop quite a bit. If you go to image size, you can save your work at 72, or even 100 dpi and it will look great on screen, but will be too low res to make a decent print. Depending on the size of your original text, that might need to be adjusted for readability. Is this drawing saved at an even smaller res than that? My drawings are about 8.5 x 12 inches, so maybe that's a bit bigger than yours, I can't know.
Anyway, love what I can see of your drawing!

Lovely feeling when you take a stroke for a walk and you hardly remember the journey. Sorry to hear about the use of your images. You are not the first person to mention this on your blog. I don't know how you could stop it altogether. I use Pixresizer and make my largest dimension 300 and it is ok on the blog but if you try and enlarge it is is too small. I am not worried about my work being copie as it isnt professional standard so no-one would want it. I guess the small c thingey for watermarks is another possible solution with your name at the side Hope you find a solution.

I miss being able to read what you've written on this drawing, and being able to see all the wonderful detail you put into these. I'm like you...I'm not crazy about watermarks especially when they run right through the middle of the image. I've toyed with the idea of watermarking mine across the bottom, but then folks can just crop it out with some images.

Since your work is actively being stolen, please start using watermarks. At least that will make it more difficult for thieves. I think it's very generous of you to share all your images and you gotta do what you can to protect yourself. If we want to see your work in all it's detail and glory, we can visit your etsy shop and buy it. Meanwhile, we're all grateful for your robust imagination and wonderful drawings. Keep it up, Miss 700 Posts!

Hi Andrea, well done on all you have achieved recently, the book, and the theatre art and mentions in that mag in London, I keep reading about your adventures!! Brilliant.
I'm only just learning on photoshop, and i'm not sure how you get your drawn image onto the computer? but, if you scan, it needs to be low res, like 75dpi, not sure if you can go lower, and then in photoshop you flatten the image (in the bit where you create a new layer I think), then save as a jpeg. This makes it smaller to send as an email. Hope this makes sense, our friend Lynne could probably help with the photoshop?? Good luck, I can easily imagine images getting stolen, I often think should I put images on my blog? It's a shame. X :)

Thanks so much guys, this is all very useful info.

This is saved at 72dpi. You can still print it? Wow. I don't know. It seems that watermark is the way to go? I really don't like them but I suppose you have to weigh up that against getting your work stolen.

Or, maybe, I should just get over it and continue to post as I normally would? It's a tough call but your input really helps. thanks.

I'm going to play around some more with Photoshop - try out some of he things you've suggested. I suppose it's not until I become more proficient with Photoshop that I find a better solution.

I want you all to read the notes and view my drawings in the best light. That's my priority.

Cheers!

Congratulations! Both on the 700th post and on the zenlike drawing experience. The image is fine, except I cannot read the text (sigh).

WOW Andrea 700 posts!!! CONGRATULATIONS!!!

Not sure if someone has already mentioned this. I think the way forward is watermarking. I usually post low-res images of my drawings on my blog, but if there is an interesting detail I want people to see, I add other images that are only the details.

For example, you could post the low-res image of this drawing with a watermark. Then, in the high res version in photoshop, you can zoom in, use the "rectangular marquee" tool to select detailed areas and crop ("Image" and then "Crop") to save details. You can then post them individually so people can read them.

That way people can still see high-res versions of the juicy bits, but it's much less likely anyone will steal them, as they're just bits and pieces of the whole picture.

Hope this helps!

I love your work! your illustrations are very beautiful! you can visit this page: psd.tutsplus.com/sessions/photoshop-basix/
there are a lot of shrot tutorials, some of them talk about resize image and how to save and present a work.

Hi Andrea, I love your drawings and would hate to see them on some cheap tote bag. I would definately watermark them...there are ways to do it very subtley and it can look professional. Your real fans will understand why you have to put a watermark on. I found this very clear video for you that might help: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=JssogKr-Vhk . Persevere with Photoshop, it is totally worth learning. Also, I agree with one of the comments above...you can make closeups of the writing in your drawings so people can read it.

Watermark, my dear. I believe photoshop may have an "add a watermark" command that would make it simple to protect your work. I do love seeing the huge images, but I don't want people stealing your work!

I'm really sorry you've had drawings stolen from you - that's horrible :(

I've pinned some of your drawings to Pinterest, but they link straight back to your blog and say in the comment that it is your drawing.

If you would prefer that I delete them, I will happily do this.

Only comment about the image size is that when you click on it, it doesn't get big enough to read, which makes me sad. I enjoy your random comments on your drawings!

Just wanted to add, the pins look like this:

http://pinterest.com/pin/244461085992718887/

I will of course remove it if you would prefer - it was never my intention to steal, and I hope you don't view it that way.

Thank you everyone, for such an amazing response.


Kim, no, no, problem. That's not what I mean by stealing! Please fell free to share my work. I'm grateful, in fact. Nope, it's when it appears on some cheap product, that I get no control over and no credit for, but is being used for somebody else to make a profit. That's what really hurts. And on the Pinterest subject, now there's something else I need to learn. Easy? Worthwhile? Or, just another place to post?

Thanks again. I am going to give watermarking a go on one of my brand new drawings, to see if I can live with it. I'm still not sue that I can. Cheers!

I'm a self-taught photoshop user. Honestly, there is a lot within the program. I took my time and experimented and had fun.
As for copyright....yes you can add watermarks and I've done this but it's not an absolute. Additionally,it's strongly suggested by experts,Scott Kelby, never to upload the highest quality nor original size to the web.

Kayshine, thanks a lot. Your message is encouraging. Sometimes (always) when I open up Photosop I'm totally overwhelmed. It's going to take some time. Cheers.

I like the softly blended values, you did that so nicely!

An alternative solution to your photo problems would be to post a small image with a few detail shots, if you make them all slightly different sizes (simply by cropping and resizing) it would make it a lot harder for people to use them commercially.

An alternative solution to your photo problems would be to post a small image with a few detail shots, if you make them all slightly different sizes (simply by cropping and resizing) it would make it a lot harder for people to use them commercially.

She is beautifully done. Lovely art!

Also, you could reframe the issue a little bit: how many of the people who see your work would not see it if this didn't happen? How many people who now use your work, would pay for it if they could not pull it from the web?

I think you might be not losing any business, and gaining exposure, using the bigger images.

However, things like details and so on sound like good ideas as well. Maybe my pov it's just a matter of perspective, so that you don't get a feeling you're losing sales, but you're gaining potential clients. :)

Thanks, guys.

Yep showing some of the details sounds like a way forward. But, you know, Gotes de Lluna, I think I'm come back around to this point of view. I really do.

Cheers.

reguarding your problem with the resizing if people want to read the text there is a zoom facility on the pc under tools or you could do ALT+X and zoom in on your text it only takes second and people must want to read what goes with the drawing to get the most of ajs craft hope it helps

I am so wondering and ispire by your unique sketch drawn style can you tell us which pencil, pen are you using? Mzrlers? together? Thank wou so much

I love being able to click your images and get a large view of your work. But I know it makes you vulnerable. I don't like the idea of watermarking artwork, either. Too bad cyber space is not free of pirates. Your work is awesome.

Blessings,
Fay

hi Andrea -
first - big fan here for a long time and please watermark. as much as i adore looking at your drawings in detail I hate to think of someone stealing your work. Those of us who love your stuff won't mind ;-)
I read the last few posts about learning Photoshop and laughed cos this was my New Years Resolution! I've struggled with it for far too long and had given up but this year I'm determined. I'm sure you've found all kinds of tutorials online but here's one I'm going to use - I've watched a few videos and I actually find her very understandable and thought perhaps you might too :-) Here's the link:
www.jessicasprague.com
then click on learn with Jessica then click on Photoshop Classes (there are some free ones :-))
Good luck with the Photoshop!

As I see it (I haven't been following you for 5 years), this is just another example of how you've taken the common and made it Uncommon. I've enjoyed every post. This one is as good as the first.

!!!

A cliché is worn-out & meaningless... but a classic is something of lasting worth, it's timeless. Every artist has to develop & keep evolving their personal style - which you've done *quite* well! This earlier piece of yours is still a good piece - it's a classic :-)

I suspect you have a cookbook commission...?

Well, I think I can wait a bit to say "I was sure" :)

fabulous, love your work

Thank you, guys.

Caroline, you might be barking up the right tree!

I can reveal all, so to speak, soon.

Cheers.

very fine drawings...you have got your own style...nice blog...

Wow Andrea. I remember you posting this! I can't believe 5 years has gone by.

Congrats on all you have accomplished in that time. Your work is stunning.

Can't wait to see the new project ;)

love this picture! it tells such a charming story ;)

can't wait for the reveal of the secret project!!

i love this picture! and i can't wait to find out what it is you're working on ;)

Wonderful sketches Andrea! I like the "Watchtower" reference too :)

As always, these are fantastic!

Lovely post, I really enjoyed it- love YSP. Sketches are beautiful x
http://bekhag.blogspot.co.uk

Thanks, guys.
If you are ever in this neck of the woods you MUST go to the sculpture park. It's magical.

Cheers.

She reminds me of GIANTS ORBITING from "Mirrormask." I think she's lovely - at least, your sketches are, since I've never seen her in person. ^_^

Great sketches. Tom certainly looks human and I love how you have captured the top pose.

Thanks, Sue.

Only four toes?

There is plenty of time. As much time as you are willing to make.

Looks amazing.

Very nice sketch, thanks for sharing.

I love that poem & painting too which introduced me at a very young age to Tennyson and the Pre-Raphaelite painters, still firm favourites.
All I have to say to you now is - sleep is for wimps and jolly good luck getting it all done. I'm sure you will!

I have a deadline for the very same day - only, it's about a boring business plan, not a piece of art, sadly. Good luck and big hugs from an Italian girl in Sweden! :)

I have a deadline for the very same day - only, it's about a boring business plan, not a piece of art, sadly. Good luck and big hugs from an Italian girl in Sweden! :)

I knew that you love Flaming June (I used to have a poster of it on my wall), but I had absolutely no idea that you were so into the pre-raphealites! Love it. Love your the progress so far. xxxx #september

Thanks, guys.

Only four toes.
Em, yes, BIG Pre raphaelite fan. Oh, and don't mention #september! It's not going so well.

Cheers, everyone. More updates soon. I hope!

SO beautiful...can't wait to see the finished piece!

I love the subtle color, Andrea!

Lovely, it´s delicious.

hahaha this sketch is great! Wasn't it very difficult to sketch the dogs through out the show? The collage look is real fun! :D

Thank you, yes, it was REALLY difficult to draw. That's why it's a bit of a mess!
Cheers.

All the answers - some would be nice. I'll keep an eye on this post as I have no idea how to balance.

Love the backdrops - they look gorgeous!

Hi Andrea,

Take a look at why you want to 'redress the balance'. Are the reasons your reasons or other people's reasons? What else (besides drawing) is important to you?

Once you know the important stuff, you can make time for all of it, on your terms.

The thing that was a breakthrough for me is that I have a choice. There's really no such thing as "I can't" ('Oh, I can't do x, I have to do y'). You are actually choosing to spend your time on something every time a choice comes up. If you choose what feels right to you, and not what you think you 'should'('shoulds' tend to come from outside (family, friends, society)), then you won't feel pulled in two different directions. Sometimes your choices won't please everyone, but since you can't ever do that anyway, there's no point in trying! What you can do is choose your priorities, and then focus on those.

Cheers,
eSeN (n.serene@gmail.com)

Congratulations AJ. I'm so so glad for you.

Humans are put on this earth to find what it is that makes them passionately alive and to share that with the world.

If drawing is that for you, you're already in balance. Moreso than the rest of this crazy world, for sure.

Provided you're not hurting anyone, just live into what you're supposed to do. Draw, lady. Draw like it's your soul made visible.

Years ago I was deeply, obsessively into flying. It was on my mind pretty much every waking minute. I remember the panic I felt when imagining the day I didn't do it any more. It seemed like I would lose the core of who I was.

The answer was that whether I'm flying or not: once a pilot, always a pilot. The magic will wait for you if you have to take a break.

Maybe the answer lies in combining your love of drawing with other things in your life: more sketchcrawls, more sketching with others, teaching your skills to others, or including drawing in those parts of your life that you feel have been neglected.

I wish you the best in finding the elusive balance. May your search lighten your soul:)

they look amazing on that huge screen!

I am in the exact opposite position - an amateur artist who hasn't created regularly for many years. Your blog of wonderful drawings is one of several inspiring me to dust off the sketchbook & supplies. I'm starting my own journey back to regular drawing and blogging about it. Whatever you decide is the right balance for you, thanks for the inspiration and for sharing your talent!

eSeN, has the solution I think. The most difficult might be to put into practice maybe. But yes, I guess the only solution to be in peace with our everyday life, is to listen to ourselves as much as possible.
You draw a lot, maybe too much in the some peoples eyes, but you do it well, and you don't seem to loose a second of that time spend drawing. It really seams worth it, your work is beautiful Andrea!!
Thank you for your passionate dedication, it's a gift to all those who are lucky enough to see your drawings!
Helen

eSen raises a good point.

Death is certain and the time we have is not. What you do with your time is important. The fact that you are fully aware of what you love and that you prioritise it is incredible.

So few people know and love themselves enough to do what you do.

Even when you think you are drawing every minute, you still make time to do what needs to be done - go to work, clean the clothes, call your Mom, etc - so even though doing these things make you feel cheated of time, I don't think they are part of the balance issue. Balance for me is doing ART as much as I can until that dreadful time when the muse takes a vacation. Then I spend that time doing research and reading, preparing for her return, then, when she does, I do as much ART as I can. That's how I stay balanced.

I've been reading a book about visioning (which sounds daft, but actually just seems to mean working out what you want so you can go do it), and had a wee go at it myself.

Essentially, you're meant to picture your life in x number of years if everything went just how you always imagined it. Then (in the present tense) you describe in detail the way your spend your week, or how you interact with the people around you.

The amazing thing is that it really does make it easier to work out what to do now in order to get there (and it's not always what you think it's going to be).

I'm with Aggie, as another amateur artist, (and mother of four teenagers/young adults) I find it a struggle to carve out time each week, never mind each day (which is my goal) to find time to draw and be creative. Relax and enjoy this time you have because before you know it other things will creep in. Thank you for sharing your journey and your achievements, it is always inspirational.

eSen talks a great deal of sense - as long as you are not in danger of being evicted, starving to death or hurting anyone, I see no problem in spending your time drawing. It's what you are brilliant at and it is starting to pay dividends. I quit art completely in my early twenties after many setbacks and various people telling me I wasn't good enough. After 13 years, I came back to it and thought to hell with anyone else, I'm going to do what I love. It's been a long hard slog but I can finally call myself a professional artist. Now I feel I have to catch up with those lost years because let's face it, we're a long time dead!

Andrea,

From your perspective you have done 'nothing but draw'.

However from those of us who have followed you for these years there is more to it than that. There is inspiration (both to spur the artists among us to create more, as well as the sheer joy of seeing the beauty of the world through your eyes), excitement of watching your career develop, and the hope that with all this great work will come greater recognition for you. As I've posted before, your blog is the starting point for student projects in my university drawing classes, which undoubtedly has a ripple effect unforeseen.

Next things? More exhibitions, travel, a reality show? Whatever 'it' is will hopefully dovetail with what you do now so we (selfishly) won't lose you.

Best wishes.

Thank you SO much for the kind response to this post, folks.

I have read and reread through all of your comments and appreciate them more than you know. I, too, will respond (to your response!)by posting very shortly. Sorry, I haven't ot around to it sooner, I've just been a bit 'all over the place' recently.

For the first time, yesterday, I suddenly felt like drawing and had a deluge of ideas. This makes me happy.

A blog post will follow shortly. In the meantime, a HUGE thank you. I'm very touched.

I understand how you feel. Re-Adjusting your life when you have a strong passion for something isn't easy at all... If you sit down and really think this through I'm sure you could make an effort to balance out your passion of drawing with other things in your life!

I'm a new fan of your work!(btw) Whatever you do, just please don't stop drawing :)

andrea, i hope these amazing comments have helped lighten your mind

with so much wisdom i'm not sure i have much new to add.

looking forward to a "balanced" you and some sketches :)

Beautiful backdrops Andrea. I have no answers either. I am absolutely consumed with making marks. ??

That is a wonderful sketch - it reminds me that sometimes we are captive inside a glass house watching the world (maybe) but not really participating. It may not be what you were thinking - but that's what is evokes in me.

Fantastic!!!! *__________*
I adore your blog^^

Well, I hope someone picks up your idea, Andrea.
S'pose it's getting cold up your way, yes? Blistering sun down here!

if i did, i would CERTAINLY send you their way. sorry, i have 0 contacts ;(

Finally making a comment after months of lurking. A beautiful, sad drawing. Unfortunately I don’t know any publishers, but I hope you find one. I tend to find the depths more interesting than the heights....
Good luck, and keep drawing.

Andrea this is quite good.

Hey 'I do not know you from Adam' for want of a better phrase. Yet I am able to drop in on your world through your blog from time to time. Being creative and having a creative mind at times feels like a burden. It is impossible to do everything in life and juggle too many things. In fact my own juggling skills sometimes leave me looking at the floor which is covered in balls! Everyone has a lull in life, hope that you get to work through yours. Take care and keep sketching/drawing/illustrating its your gift!! and you are very inspiring.

Hey 'I do not know you from Adam' for want of a better phrase. Yet I am able to drop in on your world through your blog from time to time. Being creative and having a creative mind at times feels like a burden. It is impossible to do everything in life and juggle too many things. In fact my own juggling skills sometimes leave me looking at the floor which is covered in balls! Everyone has a lull in life, hope that you get to work through yours. Take care and keep sketching/drawing/illustrating its your gift!! and you are very inspiring.

Thank you, all SO much. currently having problems leaving comments on my own blog. Why is that??? But I appreciate you stopping by and commenting so much. Please dont stop x

And we all loves ya back, Andrea!
Golly! You've reminded me that Idle Thoughts has been around for 6 years this month!
Yes, some bloggers seem to be slowing down, or moving on, but there is a steadfast group. I hope you'll stay.

Oh please, don't stop blogging. I don't do the whole facebook thing, my cat is on it and he lets me look at photos posted on it, but it's too much for little old me. I love a blog, I love YOUR blog. Good luck with the novel, fingers and toes crossed.

I love all the titles for these graphic novel drawings. Do the songs have any relevance to the project as a whole?

Actually you were great some time ago, on the last times you're getting much better.

well Happy Birthday to your blog! I still read blogs all the time, I know what you mean though about them possibly not being as relevant now as they were before what with tumblr and twitter and everything else.

Happy Blog Birthday!

Please do not stop your blog. I read it and I am certain many other do as well. It is so interesting.

Thanks for posting so regularly on your blog. Please do not give up on it. I have heard that business about the blog being an obsolete form of communications. I think not. Stay with it. Please.

Happy anniversary!

I've been reading your blog for a couple of years and very much enjoy it, although I do tend to 'lurk' and don't comment often.

Happy anniversary!

I've been happily reading your blog and admiring your art for a couple of years, although I do tend to 'lurk' and don't comment often.

love this post
because your article is very interesting to read

nice post ..
really very nice your post

Absolutely adore this. So inspired now! Thanks! :)

Don't you dare to stop! You are kidding me?! Your work is truly inspiring Andrea! PLEASE keep posting! Happy Blog Birthday!

Andrea---Edgar just called me over to read your post as it is exactly the thing we have been discussing lately. Know this...your blog will ALWAYS be relevant. I've followed along with your journey for all six years and I'm so proud to see where they've taken you. Every visit to 'Andrea Joseph's Sketchblog' leaves me inspired and wanting to do more. Thank you for this.

I have recently found your blog and I love reading it I hope you keep going but only if it makes you happy! I think blogs connect us with people all over the world. I think as humans we have a curiosity about what other humans are thinking and doing. Your art is so good and your graphic novel looks amazing keep creating and one day your publisher will come.

I have recently found your blog and I love reading it I hope you keep going but only if it makes you happy! I think blogs connect us with people all over the world. I think as humans we have a curiosity about what other humans are thinking and doing. Your art is so good and your graphic novel looks amazing keep creating and one day your publisher will come.

Thank you all SOOOO much. I'm so touched by youe kind messages. As long as you're all onboard I'll keep going!

I was just thinking aloud, really, but it's nice to hear your feelings on the subject. And, to know that some of you feel the same. I wont be going anywhere for now.

Thanks so much xxx

Lizzie, yes, they do. I've been listening to the songs whilst drawing so they'll always seep into the drawings, but I did search out these particular songs (albums) whilst thinking about the story. Does that make any sense?!

ok Joseph even i like to make sketches and i guess im good at it, i made a new blog and want someone to suggest & tell me things about my sketching. can u take a look at my blog and rate it? Please!!
heres the link:
thesketchingguy.blogspot.in
-Abhinav Sharma

hi Andrea,

your blog is a constant inspiration for me. I hope you keep it going for many years to come.

quick tools of the trade question. what pen did you use to draw this wonderful spread

all the best

chris

hi Andrea,

your blog is a constant inspiration for me. I hope you keep it going for many years to come.

quick tools of the trade question. what pen did you use to draw this wonderful spread

all the best

chris

I don't believe Bloging is a thing of the past and even if it was I'd want you to still do it! you inspire my own artwork in some ways. Happy late birthday to your blog.

A young girl that discovered this art blog of gold.

Hello Andrea,I have wondered the same thing about blogs, but I feel like blogs are so good for many things...especially artists. You can't get the same connection with other social networks. I do t

This is a lovely drawing. It seems like there were a few of us who couldn't sketch on Saturday.

Yes it WILL pass and you'll soon be back to your old productivity.

Why not try the 15min thing in the meantime? Try to draw for 15minutes sketch your feet, cup of tea, something. If after 15mins you've had enough then stop. You may find you continue longer. Sometimes helps.

This is a very nice sketch. Drawing block is always the worst, but I saw your ideas for the graphic novel! I hope you get a reply soon, I am sure that will motivate you to no end! :)

Thanks, guys.
Sue, yes, I always miss those days soo much. i just love catching up with everyone and i always come home with a handful of drawings.

Afk, it is the worse. But I picked up my pens yesterday and feel I'm pulling through!

Cheers.

You should send your shoes drawings to the companies. I bet they'd be super impressed. Especially as Converse is running a 'Yes, we make boots' campaign.

Thanks, Kaitlyn. I'll check out the Converse campaign.

Andrea your work is fantastic... I have an invite to Dribbble.com I think you not only deserve but might enjoy the community of artists and designers there. Send me an email if you are interested.

What a wonderful benefit! I really admire folks that use their talents to benefit others. You're an inspiration!

Some white accents here and there might have been nice in this drawing. Jeweler designers often draw on grey paper because it makes shiny things painted in white really stick out, such as gold, diamonds and pearls ... that would otherwise be impossible to draw on a white piece of paper.

Nice to see you back:-)

Nice to see you back:-)

I adore all your drawings! -^___^-
What a amazing piece oj art!

I loved to meet you in Clermont. You are on my blog.
I hope you liked the exhibition. I guess it was hard for you with all those people walking in front of you and no time to visit the other booths.

Thank you, guys.

Chelle, yes, I think you are right. It would have been a nice addition. Wish I'd thought of it at the time. maybe next time. A good tip.

Lilotte, thanks so much. It was wonderful to meet all the lovely people who came to the exhibition over the course of the weekend. It's true, I had just half an hour to go and look at what others were doing. So much amazing work.

Cheers, guys.