James Tully: Colored Ink/Pencil/Chalk
I used to think good visual art consisted of faithful reproduction of what we see, that photorealism was the highest form of artistic talent and skill. I had modest success as a portrait artist through that approach. Through study with a gifted teacher in Virginia, a Master of Fine Arts, I came to see that true art is the artist’s interpretation of what we see, and not just a diligent copy of what is there. I decided that the ability to show others my own vision, to invite people to notice and think about what is usually overlooked, perhaps to see something in a different way, is the true measure of a visual artist. From that time on I changed my approach to drawing, working from the heart as well as the mind, always striving to maintain the delicate balance between what is there, how I see it, and most importantly how I can honestly put it down for others to see.
"Flow"
"Breakfast"
"Mailboxes"
"Lotus and Tree"
"Violets"
I work mostly in colored ink and pencil, sometimes with chalk. In my imagination I rework everything I see, producing ideas which then evolve into drawings, put together in a pleasing composition with carefully selected colors.
I truly love what I do, and feel blessed that I have arrived at a stage in my life where I can devote much of my time to doing what I love.
Thank you for looking at my work. I hope you enjoy what you see.
