How to keep a Sketchbook

I always find so hard to keep a sketchbook. But all of them look so lovely… I want one of my own for sure. But how? What is the reason why I can’t keep a sketchbook?

When I am working in a studio, in a limited environment, with my limited subject, I have such a different attitude towards it… I turn my subject, move closer, change the positioning of leaves, even get rid of some:) There exists a relationship between me and my subject.

Whereas if I am in the wild, there are so many different things going around. Many leaves, many stems, many flowers, many fruits… Where to start and what to do you? I have no idea.

At this point, I left my artist identity and decided to work with my engineer identity. I need to develop a strategy for drawing outside. Than in time, as I get used to, I begin to break my own rules and create satisfactory and pleasing sketchbook pages.

My System basically concentrates on the reason to be on site. It is to get as much scientific information as possible. Here is my System…

First the choice of the sketchbook. I personally prefer one with spirals. It makes it more easier to open wide in the side.

Second. Given a subject what will I do with it? Divide the problem into pieces. Roots, Stem, Leaves, Flowers.

I use both the left and right pages together. These are the boxes I have to fill.

Right side, I insert general characteristics of the plant.

1. Title and Notes to start

2. The whole plant. How it looks? Mainly proportions.

   1. The structure. How the stems connect to each other?

   2. How it is connected to ground? Deatils about the main stems.

   3. Fruits, cones. Any possible composition ideas as thumbnails.

   4. Interesting facts, if you see any. Why this plant appeiled to me in the first place?

Left side, Details of the plant. Some also breaking down the subject or larger than actual size.

1. Details.

   1. Flowers and buds.

   2. Leaves.
      

Now I have a guideline and list of things to do in the field. I do my homework and turn back to my studio.

By this method it became more easy for me to work on the site. I hope this works also for you until you find your own style…