Each New Year we can feel pressured into make life-changing improvements like getting fit, decluttering or whatever. This year is exceptional. Forget the usual resolutions. It’s enough to simply survive and cope with the latest lockdown rules.
Despite oppressive restrictions, there are opportunities to try new things. After last year’s March lockdown, for example, we now have many expert sourdough and banana bread bakers! Although my art classes had to cease during this latest Level 5, I was delighted to get the opportunity to design and paint Christmas scenes in Fitzpatrick’s shop windows. Robins, rabbits, reindeer, cheeky penguins and even the Santa house built by the Glounthaune Men’s Shed made an appearance!
Like baking, drawing and painting are beneficial things to do and are great therapy. You don’t have to be a Leanardo da Vinci to sketch. It’s a question of choosing a subject, then breaking down that object or scene with your eye into easy-to-draw shapes.
For instance, to draw a penguin like the ones I painted in Fitzpatrick’s window, start with a bean shape for the penguin’s body. Draw the eyes, tiny beak, little wings and feet. Add a seagull shape above his eyes and curve the line as shown to his foot to signify the white front feathers.
Due to the current level 5 Covid restrictions, my art classes are currently postponed but I will resume when possible. For more information see my website www.frazzledmammy.com or Facebook page FB: www.facebook.com/frazzledmammy
© Maeve O’Keeffe
The Frazzled Mammy
Illustrator / Art Classes