note to self: thoughts to be expanded on later

Some questions one can ask while reading Buttertea at Sunrise - A Year in the Bhutan Himalaya (by Britta Das)

• romance vs. reality: for those who take comfort and modernity for granted, buzz words such as "Himalaya", "Tibet" and "Silk Road" have a romantic ring to them.  But to local inhabitants who have nothing to fall back on and no other mode of living to choose from, might they be craving for the very things we want to get away from?
• modernization vs. natural living: we have come a long way to be where we are today, just so that we could get away from it all?  Ideal way of living, striking a balance...

素描一張




study of shades

 

Before adding shades

I have always been mesmerized by shades and shadows, the contrast between darker and lighter areas.  When I see good black and white photographs, especially portraits, there's a natural urge to do quick sketches, to try and capture those shades that create depth, perception, and various moods. 

This is a rather cursory sketch of a profile image of a man (an actor, actually).  This sketch was not planned.  I had collected a number of WoW pictures and was getting ready to do a fine drawing of Illidan, but then I came upon this picture and it took priority over all other plans. 

And I was sorting all my drawing tools the other night, checking on inventory and deciding whether I still need to stock up on anything (yeah, like I really need more pencils)...and here is what I found ...

I suppose I should make one thing clear: I DO NOT COLLECT COLOR PENCILS, unlike many who do.  I simply "need" all of them to complete my future projects.  (yeah, I'm not in the least bit convinced about that).