Tuesday, September 16, 2008

Scribbles and Rushes

I realized earlier today as I looked at some sketchbooks from Mojave Viper in August, that I hadn't posted all the sketches I had done (or at least all of the presentable sketches--you know how it is...)

While at Mohave Viper, I was able to sketch frequently from life, even when things were moving fast, and here are some of the products of those times:photo of me sketching as the machine gunners did their thing

These sketches happened during a mock assault on a "enemy" positions, in which the weapons platoon took up positions overlooking the assault area, and laid down fire on the enemy strong points across the valley, as the infantry assaulted.

After sprinting up the hill in full gear and body armor in 100 degree heat, I can tell you that drawing becomes a bit difficult! (witness the scribbley line quality...) .

The value in these drawings is that you get good practice in quick contour drawing, telling only what's necessary for the image. Note also that down in the corner I listed the date and time the events were sketched.
Here is a life sketch of the crew of gun #3 of Weapons Company, 2/25, as they do their thing bringing the hurt to a target out in the desert. I had to sketch through several "hangs" of the mortar round as they fired and adjusted fire, so what you see in the finished product is a composite of several moments of firing, depicting the moment as the mortarman hangs the round before dropping it and sending it downrange:These two sketches depict radio men as they talk to forward observers and the fire control center to adjust fire on the target:Marines I sketched as they were watching being briefed on the upcoming assault course:

15 comments:

Beverly said...

Hello, Kris, The last time I stopped by, I wasn't able to comment. It is good to see your work. I trust that you are well. Bon travay!

TREY BRYAN said...

All these sketches are great! lately I have become real interested in military sketching/ conflicts. I'm a senior at Ringling College in Sarasota FL. What are some ways in really looking and pursuing it?

Mary Sheehan Winn said...

Your drawings are wonderful. Did you know that Winslow Homer was an embedded military artist during the Civil War?
I can't thank you enough for your service, Kris.
God Bless you is all I can say.

A Colorful World said...

Your sketches are wonderful! I am so glad you are able to capture these important images and share them with us!

Pete said...

Kris,
I just discovered your blog and love your work. It's especially interesting because I work for the Army as a graphic artist and I paint as well (sort of semi-pro). The inprogress stuff is very informative!

Pete

Jo Castillo said...

Boy, don't know where I have been. Missing your blog somehow.

These last sketches are so telling and touching. Thanks for telling us about these Marines.

Take care.....

Pollock said...

It' a very good job ! Great !

Operation Peace On You said...

Former Desert Storm Marine, and occaisional "artist" here. Dig yer work! Hope that you continue your sculpting endeavors, as it proves quite rewarding! A 3-D render is an actual "face to face" that 2-D does not deliver.Just to throw in a suggestion... SMAW gunners (0351, USMC) make great subjects! Ha Ha! Keep up the good work, "Jughead"! Will continue to follow your posts. Article In Leatherneck did not do you justice!

Jo Castillo said...

Happy Marine Corps Birthday, hope you have a super day.

Anonymous said...

hey buddy i love your works keep doing it i have a domain for use you can use to host your pics here the domain namme is bhujhangi.com bhujhangi is offspring of bhujhang(snake) in punjabi

Gabriel Campanario said...

i just found your blog, excellent and inspiring work, i'll be coming back

Anonymous said...

And after September? Thanks for the sketches. I can't imagine taking digipics, let alone sketching, in these circumstances.

Unknown said...

my heart skips a beat when I see your work...

Online Degrees said...

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The Sarum Avenger said...

I especially appreciate your sketches on this blog.
Any problem if I SAVE them?