C.J. Bradford

Each piece of art is hand drawn with pen and ink. No digital processes are involved in the production of my art work. Depending on the subject matter of the drawn image, I will occasionally use a light wash to highlight my ink work. Pen and ink have been used by artists for thousands of years. Although the tradition of creating solely in pen and ink is more common in Europe and Asia, many fine examples are found in the history of American art. My paper is the highest quality, acid-free, cold press cotton paper. While other media can age and fade over time, pen and ink drawings will last as long as the paper on which they are drawn. This underlying quality of permanence serves as a foundation for the thoughts and moods subsequently conveyed in the artistic expression. Most of my drawings begin as a single statement in my mind. From that statement, I begin, mentally, to sketch out the basic design for the representation of that thought. Once I have the picture sketched mentally, I create a basic pencil sketch on the paper to be used for the drawing. This sketch includes only the major elements of the design. When I am satisfied with the placement of the major design, I begin inking the drawing. The small details are worked out as the single statement unfolds on the paper to become a conversation between the viewer and me.