Introduction

     My name is Grace Lorntzen and I am currently pursuing a Bachelor's of Elementary Education. I currently work as an online tutor and enjoy working with kids. In the past, I've worked as a swim instructor for a few years. In my free time I enjoy music, reading, and drawing. I also love swimming but haven't swam much since winter started. I grew up moving around a lot but I currently live on campus and moved from Seattle. I'm taking this class to both meet my degree requirements and find new types of art to explore. I'm most excited to learn about Modern and Non-Western art.

Maple Leaf- Fine Art America

    One type of art that has always been of interest to me is black and white artwork that uses a simple and common office pen or Sharpie. I first started discovering this kind of art in middle school when I saw a post on Pinterest made entirely out of a pen. I loved how similar to the artwork above, it used textures and pressure to change the tone and to add complexity to the art. Even though it doesn't have color, the Maple Leaf is still very detailed. Most of the art of this kind that I see usually has some sort of abstract element and isn't just realism. This creative element peaked my interest in the art style more. Aside from my enjoyment of observing art, I also enjoy creating it. I mostly draw but I also paint occasionally. My favorite is to use Sharpie or other permanent markers on canvas.

View of Arles by Vincent van Gogh

    Although many of the pieces that I take inspiration from or create myself are more abstract and modern versions of pen and ink drawings, the art style goes back a very long way. The Britannica has a wonderful article on the origins and aspects of pen drawing. It includes information and pictures of popular artwork in this style including View of Arles by Vincent van Gogh. See the article here: Britannica-Pen Drawing.