Jun 7, 2010
Ivory
Yesterday I started Creativity Bootcamp. It’s the first time it’s ever been held, so I was probably not the only one who didn’t know what to expect.
Our first assignment was to create something to do with the inspiration prompt, “ivory”.
I saw the word and had no idea of what I would do. I had to get ready to catch a movie with a friend, so I set the whole thing aside for the moment. Luckily I had a half hour drive to get to the theater. When I’m driving, my creative gears always start turning. I have my best ideas and insights in the car. I came up with so many different ideas. Some were way to involved to possibly finish in a day, so as I was driving back, I thougth, “ok, you have to think of something simple.”
I got home and didn’t have much oomph left in me with which to create something, so I watched some tv. At about 11:30 I decided to go to bed, and as I was passing my creative work area, I had the internal conversation that ended up with me sitting down to work on the theme. Three and a half hours later, I was finally finished.
So much for simple!
The idea behind this piece was to emulate ivory carvings which area often so incredibly intricate, I can’t imagine that a person actually made them. My drawing isn’t at the same level of intricacy as some true ivory works, but it took long enough anyway! Plus it’s elephant friendly.
This drawing is slightly lighter than the original. I got a closer match with another version of the image, but I liked the lighter tone, especially considering the theme.
Late at night, waiting for the image to scan, I absent mindedly started doodling, and ended up with a sketchy version that’s kind of similar to the original drawing.
I’m aware that making the sketch second is a little backward from what might typically be expected, but sometimes a backward step can still be a step in the right direction.
I’m looking forward for inspiration to strike about today’s theme of “picnic”. My first idea was ants, but I want to see if I can push it a little further, but don’t be surprised if you see ants here tomorrow!
I love the original and the sketch! Both have gorgeous detail. With the sketch, I feel like I’m looking up at a chandelier
Just discovered your blog through the Creative Boot Camp. I also chose to draw, but need to find a scanner so I can share. I love your drawings! Good luck in the crash course.
thanks kylie! i love to hear what others see when they look at my work. i can totally see the chandelier now that you mention it!
Good luck finding a scanner. Looking forward to seeing your drawings when you get them posted.
I really like your ivory interpretation Anika, looks like crochet work to me:) Thanks for the link, I’m considering joining!
oh, i can see it as crochet for sure! cool!
you should definitely join in on the fun. it’s certainly not too late, and so far it’s been a rewarding experience, even after just one day!
Hi Anika,
I love your work!
Do you have an email address i can email you at?
Kristy
yeah, actually i’ll email you at the address that you included to comment on here.
[...] You see, I actually did have a different original idea for “picnic”. It involved lines of ants inter-weaving to create an intricate pattern that might resemble a doily or some fine china, but I discarded the idea almost immediately for 2 reasons: ants seemed obvious, and I didn’t want the final image to look too much like the drawing I’d just finished the day before for the theme of ivory. [...]
wow, all of your pictures are very inspiring, but the ants are absolutely incredible! beautiful pattern you have made. very creative thought!
eep! sorry, was trying to post for picnic, but i’m massively in love with your ivory pictures, too!
no problem, torri. i’m glad you like my drawings.
I REALLY love this! It looks like Queen Anne’s Lace flowers!
thanks Faith, I can see that! i love Queen Anne’s Lace. Maybe I’ll have to do something with those flowers this year!