A Gift of Mugwort, 2026 (self-portrait), charcoal on paper, 24"x18"

This is a portrait using two mirrors so that I can draw my profile. To draw the hands, I first posed the right hand and drew it with my left (dominant) hand. Then I posed the left hand and tried to drew it with my right hand. I am thinking there is a better way to draw both hands when using mirrors, but I don't know what it is. Suggestions? 

Open participation life drawing sessions, 6-9 pm Tues/Thurs

October - May : Saxenian Studio, 79 Teawaddle Hill Road Leverett, MA.  June  - September: Lilacland Studio, 24 Harkness Road, Pelham MA. 

For more information, go to Amherst Life Drawing on Facebook or contact Sean at zzutak@aol.com

I have been a member of this drawing group for five years and owe much of what I have learned so far to the incredibly supportive and talented artists and models here.  Everyone is welcome, including drop-ins, all levels. 

Steve Saxenian, host of Amherst Life Drawing  during the winter months. 

Anahit by Steve Saxenian, 18"x6"x8",  stevesaxenian.com

Lilacland, site of Amherst Life Drawing during the summer months.  Jim Lumley, host.

Lilacs in Afternoon Light by Jim Lumley, oil on board, 20"x24", thelumleystudioatlilacland.com

I love going to the Clark Art Institute, Williamstown, MA, and arranging through The Study Center to see a work that is in storage. There are thousands of artists' works to see that are not on exhibit.  Above is an original drawing by Winslow Homer. What a thrill.  clarkart.edu

Winslow Homer, Drowning Figures (Study for Undertow)  c.1886, graphite with chalk, on grey-green wove paper,  5  3/4" x 8  7/8" 

Copying from Winslow Homer's drawing, Study for Undertow, c.1886. 

  2026, graphite on a sketchbook page.   

Another stow-away at the Clark. I was able to sit with this original right in front of me, studying and copying Prud'hon's lines and shading technique. Look on the website for all "offline" works at the Clark, and contact The Study Room to arrange for an individual or group viewing of up to 20 works. This service is available in most museums if you just ask. Usually a two - four week notice is required.

Pierre-Paul Prudh'hon, Le Source, c. 1801, black and white chalk, stumped, on light blue paper, 21  3/16 " x 15  5/16"