my Eclectic Endeavours

I purchased my first Moleskine® Sketchbook on one of my business travel adventures. I wasn't done using my regular ol' sketchbook so I postponed using it. While browsing online, I came across artwork by Moopf. The point is, this guy uses Uni Posca Markers which can not be found in the U.S.! These markers are filled with water-based paint and I figured they'd be great to travel with. The closest thing I found locally were the Sharpie Oil-Based Markers at the Office Depot. And so, I unwrapped my Moleskine and gave the markers a whirl.
The image above was the result of my Sharpie Paint experimentation. I found that like true oil paint, it takes time to dry before adding another layer. Each layer is opaque and so requires tons of layering! They DO give off a mild odor while working with them. I think I'd rather work with water-based paints to get a more solid color. Unfortunately I can't purchase them locally, either. I have to find the Sharpie water-based paint markers online.

The image below was taken with flash to show how shiny the result is.

This was my attempt at illustrating. It was taken from my son's book, "Zen Shorts" by Jon Muth. Granted, his image is water color, not an oil-painted one.

My friendly dragon using the Sharpies. ;o)

I was introduced to ink wash in one of my life drawing classes and figured it was most likely the closest to watercolor. Throughout my entire life span, I can not recall ever being taught to watercolor. I decided it was long overdue. Since this is my experimental phase, I figured I'd start with the most economically, yet decent set of watercolors: Crayola 8 ct Washable Watercolors. Shh... don't laugh. Eventually I'll move myself up to Winsor & Newton Artists' Watercolors. I gotta make sure I like the idea first. ;o)

My first attempt was pretty blah!

I was more pleased with my next attempt and it began to truly seduce me. ;o)

Here's my Ode to voting. It's a pen and watercolor combination.

Here's another pen and watercolor combination.