Susan Arnsten-Russell
My digitally enhanced drawings begin as a sketch inspired by a moment or an event that I felt could not be described in words or illustrated with photographs. When I sketch, I am attempting to provide a view of both my internal and my external impressions and perceptions.
If I feel that an initial sketch has been successful in portraying these perceptions I continue to work on the sketch by scanning it and then using computer tools to enhance the image. This results in something that can be reproduced and shared with others.
TouchDrawing is done by spreading non-toxic water mixable oil paint on a smooth, non-absorbent drawing board using a printmaking roller. A sheet of paper is placed on top of the paint. Then I move my hands, fingertips or fingernails on the paper. The pressure of my touch forms impressions. I use lightweight paper so that I can see through it and watch my drawing emerge. When a drawing feels complete, I peel it off the drawing board and place it to one side. I then roll the board smooth and go on to the next drawing. Paint is added only when necessary. At the end of a touch drawing session I look back at the drawings I have done in sequential order starting with the first drawing. In this way each drawing can be viewed is a stepping stone on an inner journey or a story that provides insight into who I am in this moment at this time. It is the story of that day's TouchDrawing session. When my Touch Drawings are kept together in a series this narrative quality is preserved and the viewer is given a window into what I experience when I engage in my TouchDrawing practice.
There are also times when a particularly powerful TouchDrawing can also stand alone.
