Art should be serious and I paint what I know

"Practice what you know," Rembrandt.

In this drawing, I used an airbrush and India ink to create dynamic value and tone, enhancing depth and dimensionality. The airbrush technique, known for its soft gradients and gentle transitions, enriches the visual experience and allows precise control over paint application, achieving flawless color and tone blending. India ink, with its deep black hue, highlights contrasts and amplifies the visual impact, providing a striking counterpoint to the softer airbrush effects.

The drawing was inspired by an old family photograph, which holds significant sentimental value as it connects to my family's history. This photo, taken years before my birth, has become a cherished memory through frequent viewings. Every face and expression narrates a story, reflecting a shared history that transcends time.

Recreating the photograph allowed me to infuse the artwork with personal emotions and reflections rooted in my experiences. As I worked, I reminisced about the stories behind the people depicted, adding layers of meaning to the process. The drawing became a journey through memory and familial connection, exploring themes of nostalgia, love, and the passage of time.

This artwork evolved into a celebration of my heritage, a tribute to those who have shaped my life, and a visual narrative capturing the essence of my family. It was not merely about replicating an image but honoring the memories that define my existence and expressing the profound impact of those who came before me.

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Family: Drawing from old family picture c. 1955-57, Ink on Paper, Airbrush, Sheet Size: 22" x 30", 2019

Cherished Memory

By Eric Buechel

In the heart of a home, where laughter resides,

A tapestry woven with love as our guide,

Moments like whispers, soft echoes of time,

In the warmth of our family, life's sweetest rhyme.

Gathered around, the table we share,

Stories and secrets float sweet in the air,

With each passing glance, a bond that we weave,

In the fabric of memory, we learn to believe.

Through seasons of joy, through trials we stand,

Hand in hand, together, we weather the land,

The echoes of childhood, like songs in the breeze,

In the garden of moments, our hearts find their ease.

From grandmothers' tales to the laughter of youth,

Each cherished memory, a treasure of truth,

In photographs fading, yet vibrant they stay,

In the heart's quiet corners, they never decay.

So here's to the family, the roots that we share,

In the book of our lives, each chapter laid bare,

With love as our compass, together we roam,

In the cherished memories, we've built our true home.

P.O. Box 277

Pleasant Hill, Tennessee 38578

(931) 881-7806

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