This is a third piece I’ve put up where I simply applied ink with a ruling pen. The idea of these is to create an interesting image, using very simple ink strokes. If there is balance and good spacing, there can be a pleasing result. Having spent some time experimenting with these, I think there is a principle at work similar to that in Japanese shodo (calligraphy), even though there is minimal resemblance between this and shodo. The principle, I think, is balance and harmony without symmetry or alignment. The ink spots/spray were created by digging into the paper with the pen so that the vibration caused the ink to spray.
This is another piece where I used ink strokes on a background of watercolor. I imagine that it may be a bit too busy for some people, but others may enjoy letting their attention roam from one section to another, looking at colors, shapes, and lines. How do you see it?
This is a trial using an instrument I made out of tin called a “folded ruling pen.” I have a real one on back order, but these tools apparently are somewhat rare; hence an attempt to make my own (following instructions on Youtube). The behavior was not quite what I wanted, but some of the effects were nice. So, I will continue to experiment with this one and make some more.
Sometimes abstract work defies my attempts to give it a title, but in this case, I think the ink does look a bit like it is encased in stone. Of course, others may see it differently, which is one of the neat things about abstract art.
This piece continues my explorations of using watercolor backgrounds to ink foregrounds and blends. I like how the textures turned out.
One more in a series of pieces, where I’m experimenting with lines and elongated shapes. The aim is to avoid as many parallels and right angles as possible, while at the same time creating an image that hangs together.
I love to make flowing marks on paper and that is basically what this is. This may not be for everyone, but I find it very enjoyable to do and to contemplate. It was done with ink and a bamboo pen I made.
What works? I think there should be a combination of graceful lines, interesting forms and angels, and a sense that it is a whole. I have done a lot of sketches like this over the years and have found that it is almost impossible to actually plan how to do them. You have a general idea of what you’re after, but then you have to let your hand take over. I find that most times what emerges is not that interesting, but if I keep at it, something very intriguing can result.
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