Art in the open

While covid restrictions were in place we moved Art in the Open drawing activity online. Artist Damian Callan visited green spaces and created these short videos using different techniques and inspired by works in the collection.

Drawing can refocus the eye and allow us to explore the familiar until it becomes strange and then familiar again. Maybe these videos will inspire you to pick up a pencil and head out into your local area to sketch?

By the loch

In this first tutorial Damian Callan heads to a loch, creating a study outdoors and then heads back to his studio to work on the final pastel artwork.

In this session Damian uses:

A drawing board (a strong piece of cardboard would do too)
Pastel paper or sugar paper
Pastels
Charcoal
Chalk
Hairspray

In the Scottish collection you will find a wide range of works on paper and many representations of nature and landscape – here are just a few - have a look and be inspired.

In the Woods

In this tutorial Damian visits a wood, creating a study outdoors and collecting some branches and leaves before heading back to his studio to create a more detailed still life.

In this session Damian uses:

Black pastel paper or sugar paper
A pastel pencil or piece of pastel
A plastic rubber/eraser
White chalk
An easel or a drawing board
Hairspray or fixative
A selection of coloured pastel (brown, green or others)

In the Scottish collection you will find a wide range of works on paper and many representations of nature and landscape – here are just a few - have a look and be inspired.

St Margaret’s Loch | a flock of swans

In the third tutorial, the last of the Art in the Open – At Home series, Damian heads out to draw a flock of swans. He then cycles back to the studio to explore different compositions and techniques.