Black and White

Before Color....

My artistic journey began about 5 years ago when I decided to take a drawing class at our community college here in Aptos, a neighboorhood of Santa Cruz, Ca.  Drawing 101.... had me at the starting gate.  I had to learn the "lingo" . Words like contour, value, tone, contrast, perspective, among other terms shaped my learning experience.  I was a beginner. I started with charcoal, graphite, and the occasional white chalk ( an unknowing precursor to my current obsession!).  I drew and still do paint from observation.  I admire artists that can create from imagination.  For me, I haven't crossed that path yet.  I just wouldn't know where to put things on the paper!  I kept sketch books...there are many now in my studio, that are full of early sketches..

Drawing 101 led to Drawing 102 which led to figure drawing from a live model.  I still practice drawing the live model from a very accomplished artist here in Santa Cruz , Susie Wilson.  She is extremely talented, classically trained, and a delight to learn from. 

Below are some of my early charcoal and graphite works.  Enjoy!

Butterfly in Australia © Donna Gross

 Norman © Donna Gross

 Pelican on the Bluff © Donna Gross

 Anticipation © Donna Gross

 Moscow 8x10 © Donna Gross

Blackie © Donna Gross