Sketch: Batman!

Rainy Day Batman Sketch
India Ink, ink, & watercolor on paper

Sometimes it's fun to go back to an old classic. I had a little time this weekend to break out the India ink and sketch while my children were taking their afternoon naps. I didn't start out with Batman as my subject, but my original sketch of a 1930's era spaceman hero (think Buck Rogers) looked pretty rough. I erased it and started again with less intention.

I ended up with a pretty detailed, modern armored Dark Knight. I didn't like that either. I erased some details and brought it back to a simpler cape and cowl. Once I started applying the India Ink, the cape took on a life of its own and the costume details disappeared.

So it goes. Intention usually gives way to inspiration and trial and error. Then, quiet footsteps across a pine wood floor told me I was finished with this sketch.

"Whatcha doing, Daddy," my little girl asked as she climbed into my lap and scanned the desk.

"Drawing," I said.

"You drawing Batman?"

"Uh Huh, " I answered proudly.

"You painted it."

"Yep. Well, sort of. I used ink instead of paint. But I used a brush. You like it."

She nodded her head and traced one of the bats with her finger.

"Bats," she whispered.

"Yep."

"Daddy, you come and play with me, okay."

She took my hand and led me away. On to other adventures.

Sketch: Robot and Bird

From my sketchbook.

Watercolor and ink on paper.

Hunger

"Hunger"
Ink & Watercolor on Paper

Here is another ink and watercolor sketch from my sketchbook. I'm trying to work with a variety of tools and blends on these small sketches. This piece is 5.5 x 8 inches. I used dip pens and brushes instead of the illustration pens for this one.

Sketch: Live Oak

"Live Oak"
Ink on Paper

Here's another little sketch from the fantasy short story project. I may go back and add a little color to it or it may just be the template for a larger watercolor piece.