The Power Of The Pencil: Why It’s Still My Favorite Tool
Simple, Sharp and Perfect
The Pencil… most of us have used this simple tool at some point in our lives. It’s familiar — something we’ve held in our hands to take a school exam, write an essay or used to create a masterful work of art. So versatile, yet so simple.
Have you ever wondered why some people are so drawn to a specific tool or medium when making art? Out of all the instruments, why does one choose the flute? Why are some artists so passionate about making things by hand vs. using digital tools? The reasons become clear as you dig deeper.
For me, the pencil has always been my pal. Why do I love it so much and choose it time and time again over every tool out there? The short answer: It’s Simple. The pencil is small, lightweight, easy to use, forgiving and needs little maintenance.
The deeper reason why I love pencil, is its ability to achieve the finest detail — I’m talkin’ pencil strokes as thin as hair. Plus the wide range of tones I’m able to create with it. So much of my work centers around accurately depicting the natural world and all of its complexities. I’m constantly in awe of how intricate nature is and it’s my goal to highlight some of that magic — inviting others to slow down and notice the subtle beauties of our world.
You might pass by a flower without a second thought. But if I draw that flower, maybe you’ll pause — maybe you’ll see it anew. Mother Nature is the master artist; I’m simply a messenger, telling her story through my drawings.
Old School Tools In A Digital World
Lately, I’ve been reflecting on the true significance of the pencil in this digital age. It’s so easy now to create an impressive piece of art using software, AI and a computer. But, in my opinion, the most impressive art will always be that which is handmade, created with tools like a paintbrush or pencil. These are the works that require true craftsmanship and a real human touch. It’s one thing to view a digital print and quite another to examine the individual brush strokes and techniques that go into a masterfully crafted painting.
I’ve Updated The Online Shop!
A small selection of original drawings on wood and paper are now available on my website. Most of these drawings were made over the past two years and this shop page will be continuously be updated with new work.
Still Accepting Portrait Commissions
Just here to let you know that I’m still accepting portrait commissions! Right now, I’m particularly inspired by old photographs, but I’m open to drawing any photo that’s special to you.
Send me an email for more info! pthorntonart@gmail.com
Soooo much new art coming over the next two months and I cannot wait to share everything! Thank you for reading and for joining me on this journey.
Much Love,
Parker
I am in awe of your beautiful drawings.
I love the effect of drawing on wood - makes the medium of graphite seem more permanent somehow - i like the off white colour too - is that achieved through drawing on raw wood panel or do you prepare it with any kind of gesso? Thanks for all your posts i look forward to reading them whenever they appear in my inbox.