8 on 80...

Andre
Charcoal on paper
14 x 11"

This is another of my portraits from the forthcoming book, 8 on 80 - written by Kim Wyatt, and published by Bona Fide Books. This amazing woman is in her 80's, still skis as often as the sun shines (which in Tahoe is a lot!) and is just an inspiration. She has the most beautiful skin, which you notice when you sit and draw someone for an hour whilst they're being interviewed. She also knits amazingly complex sweaters, one of which she was sporting for the interview. I couldn't possibly do it justice in a quick sketch, so an implication of the stitchwork on her shoulders was all I did.

It's always a little nerve-wracking, showing someone their portrait after struggling with movement, gesticulation and shifting light. Drawing someone whilst they're talking is great because they're more animated than if you labour over a formal portrait for hours, days, or weeks - but it's not without challenge. I realise when I'm doing this how much I rely on studio lights to create exciting forms and contrast. Without that sort of control, and the pressure to create a believable likeness in a very short amount of time...well, it keeps me on my toes!

So the 'ta-da!' moment arrived after the interview was finished, and I turned around my sketchpad to show the sitter her portrait. My 80-something year old sitter simply said, "You made me look old."

8 on 80

Ken
Charcoal on Bristol Paper
14 x 11"

This was actually the first drawing / interview we did for our forthcoming book, 8 on 80. It's pretty challenging to draw someone whilst they're talking, and the light is shifting. It was almost dark by the time we'd finished, so I had to really stay on the ball and work fast. It's amazing to meet people who really embody that whole 'Peter Pan' idea, still living life to the full well into their 80's. This guy said that he rarely skis with anyone else, because they can't keep up with him! It must be the Tahoe air....

8 on 80...a sneak preview

Martin
Charcoal on Bristol Paper
14 x 11"

Kim Wyatt (of Bona Fide Books) and I are producing a book called 8 on 80. It's theme is rad 80 year old Tahoe locals, who still ski almost every day of the season. Kim is interviewing them, and I sketch them whilst they tell us about their lives, and reveal a little of the secret of staying active and living life to the full into their 80's. More to come...