Last week I published this field sketching post so that you could get a behind-the-scenes look at how I work. Although it’s been a busy week with little formal time spent at the drafting table, I’ve still managed to squeeze in some more sketching time. These field sketching #2 snapshots were done at the Upper West Side Barnes and Noble on Monday afternoon.

Field Sketching #2 –

Photo of cartoon people "field sketches" in my sketchbook

(My sketchbook looks at home among the best sellers!)

Ink free hand cartoon sketches of people at Barnes and Noble bookstore

Here are the sketches after I added the watercolor back at home:

My goal…

With field sketching is to quickly capture the pose and mood of the people I see around me. Adding in the environment/background is also important since it gives a sense of place. In each of the above free-hand ink sketches, I started with a simple body shape and the outline of the head.

I’m particularly fond of this little guy…

Ink and watercolor cartoon sketch of man browsing Barnes and Noble bookstore - by Joana Miranda
Field sketching #2 - From my sketchbook. Sketches done at Barnes and Noble bookstore

Because he seemed so studious and yet a little lost, too. (Maybe the latter impression came from the fact that he wandered by so many times.)

But, I also like this sketch, too…

Field Sketching #2 - Quick hand- drawn ink cartoon sketch of woman sitting on the floor studying at Barnes and Noble bookstore.

Because her pose was complicated and yet I somehow managed to capture it pretty successfully.

Meanwhile…

Because I haven’t had any more time for bookstore browsing or coffee dates since Monday, I’ve had to resort to my old standby of sketching people on the subway on my way to Lincoln Center for rehearsals and performances.

Field Sketching - Quick free-hand ink cartoon sketch of man in a parka, by Joana Miranda

But as you can see…

Inspiration can be found all around if you know where to look!

Ink and watercolor pencil quick cartoon sketch of man sitting on a yellow subway bench, by Joana Miranda

P.S. To purchase my whimsical cartoons and art, please visit me in my shop at Etsy.

Comments

  1. Mm says:

    Yah, I like your last browser in the bookstore, too. Someday they will be in your famous collection! Xoxo mm

    • Joana says:

      I’ll be sure to credit you as my BIGGEST fan when I accept my star on the walk of fame. (But even if I don’t ever reach stardom, you’ll always have my biggest thanks and love for being the best Mm ever.)

      xox – J

    • Joana says:

      Yay for your new ipad and my new computer! I owe you an email (I ALWAYS owe you an email, it seems) and I will get back to writing properly hopefully tomorrow. 🙂 I’m looking forward to hearing about your week in Jacksonville and how things are going in general. xox – J

  3. Pamela Frame says:

    Joana, It is wonderful to see how you have developed your style and talent! You really are so accomplished. Brava and keep doing what you are doing! I love your work.

    • Joana says:

      Hi Pam,

      So lovely to hear from you, and thank you as always for cheering me on! The past few days have been heavy on the tech side of things (I’ve been trying to figure out some video editing programs) but I’m still managing to squeeze in my drawing practice. Finding time to add new posts is next!

      Hope you have a great week!
      xox – Joana

  4. Pingback: Field Sketches - Out and About in NYC • JOANA MIRANDA STUDIO

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