It’s the most sophisticated communication device ever created, with its own built-in replacement cartridge and delete feature. No, I’m not talking about the computer, I’m talking about the pencil. And here’s a fact known by writers and school children everywhere: pencils, unlike computers, provide a unique and invaluable form of “chew therapy.”
That’s why so many artists, who always need therapy, love to work in pencil. Unlike, architects, however, they prefer softer leads, like #1s or #2s. But why?
To find out, I drew this self-portrait using a #9, the hardest pencil lead there is. At first, I wasn’t sure what to think of it, I was torn (or rather, the paper was). But it does have a certain tortured quality, don’t you think? One thing’s for sure, though—I definitely prefer to let my artwork…
Do the suffering.
That’s pretty metal \m/
;>)
You’ve got a good ‘point’ there… 🙂
Rim shot. ;>)
Trying different methods…creativity at its best.
Gel pens are writing. Pencils are for filling out forms.
A good #2 is always needed when planning out our Christmas baking schedule. With so many holiday favorites to choose from, the priority list repeatedly gets shuffled. As for writing, I have “graduated” to gel pens but I do see the POINT of using pencils in certain circumstances.
Rim shot. ;>)
I’ve heard of suffering for your art, just never knew that art had to suffer for you …
;>)
I don’t know about that, Mitch. I’m torn. 😂
;>)
Your self portrait actually resembles this little smiley face ;>) that you sometimes use to respond to comments. But your self portrait looks like this ;<)
I see it now that you point it out, Nancy. Sigh, even my art mocks me.
No worries-I don’t think Modern Art mocks unless you project that into it. Anyway, your pencil sketch has a Mona Lisa smile.
Try crayons, Mitch.
I have. The taste awfully waxy.
Witty!
I’ve found that the plastic edge along the screen’s upper rim works well…
Thanks for the tip, Ana. I’ll give that a try.
If the shards get to you, a little Ambutal actually makes it taste better too.
My pens and pencils always look like that.
Pencils are for crossword puzzles. (So are erasers.) Unless you’re my sister, who does hers in INK.
Mitch,
Fun stuff. I. High school they are gone but at least artists keep them alive.
Merry Christmas,
Gary
Gary Avants Forbear Productions * *garyavants66@gmail.com garyavants66@gmail.com
You too, Gary.
I miss handwriting. Is it taught anymore in school, I wonder? I especially like to write notes in books (the real ones) using a mechanical pencil.
I love a softer pencil lead but have yet to figure out how to sharpen them without breaking the lead. Any tips?
Roze
Maybe? I seem to do better with soft leads when I press them very gently into a electric sharpener, or use a hand-held sharpener.
Thanks, I’ll try to remember that. Have a great day!