Sketches /Cam MacPherson

I started drawing and sketching back in the mid seventies. I would not stay in school like every other child at that time. As a result I had a lot of spare time on my hands so I took a night course at a local school in Surrey BC, just shortly after I got back from a short trip to Toronto. Hitch-hiking back to Surrey brought me into the provincial ministries care at which time I started to draw different shapes and objects around the house. At times it would seem that you would put the pencil down and not pick it up again for some time. Some times longer then youwould like to remember, but each time you pick it up again, magically, you get better with your designs and shapes.

When I started sketching I used to like doing different Harley designs and mystical shapes and figures as well as skulls along with other heavy metal stuff . Then once again I lost track of time and then as is the norm, life starts to pass you by. You get busy with working for a living,. Finally though after a lifetime of living on the streets you start to see life for what it is really all about. You tend to mellow out a bit so you start to draw more calming scenes. Pictures of eagles and fun stuff as well with a touch of humour to it Drawing is relaxing and for me, passes the time. You get great satisfaction out of what you have created as well as getting better at your detail. It also helps your passion for drawing to grow. You are always thinking about new ideas and what to draw next. All things mystical, feathers , tattoo design ,eagles , plants , roses are some of the things that I like to draw. I can draw many things and like most artists I draw heavily on the things I see around me, continually adding my own details and layers until the picture satisfies the idea that I originally had. Sketches and drawings like the eagles and scenery are usually done from my minds eye as I chill for a while with pencil in hand paper in front of me. Then before you know it I've created a masterpiece of my liking and once more am satisfied with what I've just created. Another creation destined for the wall, a print, or on a T-shirt.

When I took the night course back in the seventies, I had the passion for drawing. In grade school I wasn't the quickest student and it just seemed like art was the best way out of that situation. As I grew older I had a renewed sense of passion for drawing and as I have said 'you get satisfaction from almost every picture you complete'. During those times I had the chance to observe other people's art work. There are some pretty good artists out there. All filled with fabulous ideas and they move on to other areas like graphic arts and different occupations while at the same time, for some of us, it is a hobby.If I could pass out any advice at all for those would like write a book or start a art portfolio, I say go for it the same way you would any other things in life. Jump right in and see where it takes you. You cant fail if you have determination. Be adventurous and get out there get some fresh ideas. Do research. It helps. Mostly though just don't stop drawing. Keep going. Keep trying. If you feel knocked down like we all do from time to time then get right back up. You'll see the results. You'll see that your effort has been worth it this I can guarantee.