A favorite artist of mine, Ian Sideaway, posted on his blog a couple of terrific quotes by other all-time favorite artists of mine:

I so identify with Potter’s statement. As this week and weekend are packed with so  many wonderful things, I find myself wanting to draw more and more and more. The above drawing was made a few weeks ago at the Ciener Botanical Gardens and I am planning on being there tomorrow morning! I know I will be tempted to back out and do some of the many things I need to do to be ready for the Craft and Artistry Bazaar on Saturday. But I “need” to draw even more than all those things … to reset my heart’s rhythm to an even pace, hopping off the whirling  merry-go-round to drink in Beauty with the straw of my pen. Yes. Ms. Potter had it right.

Oh, how true this is! I agree with it 150%. Long before I kept a sketchbook of drawings from my life, I always loved my sketchbook for the spontaneous, unfinished drawings that were merely a stepping stone for “proper paintings.”  I have also loved the sketches and drawings of famous artists more than their finished paintings. Degas’ quote is why. If you ever have a chance to look at a book of Andrew Wyeth’s paintings, take special note of his sketches and drawings of Christina’s World. They are so moving and achingly beautiful. I would almost say I prefer them to the finished painting … they record the first blush inspiration, the imprint of a human hand, and the decision making he went through in composing the painting.

And you would do well to look at, study, and enjoy the drawings of Ian Sideaway. Wow, that guy can draw! Love, love his line work.

A beautiful day to all my dear readers, near and far!