Robin Lauersdorf

To many artists, drawing is used as a preliminary means to an end. Through years of meticulous work, I have tried to show that the pencil can be used as an art form in itself. Through close observation, I render my graphite pencil drawings as detailed and realistic as possible. Without the use of color, my drawings must stand on design and value alone. Opposed to pen and ink, pencil allows me to obtain all of the subtle values ranging from very light to very dark. Charcoal, being very soft, doesnÕt allow for fine details. My subject matter often varies. I find that anything is interesting to draw as long as I can be creative in the designing of the piece. Like most artists, I have a vision of what I want to draw and must research, photograph and sketch until I have illustrated what I envision. The design process can take longer than the actual drawing itself. However, because of the detail I try to achieve, it can take up to three months before I feel satisfied with the completed drawing. I have always felt inspired by the artist M. C. Escher. My current group of work has definite Escher influences. I like to play with reality and hopefully trick the viewer into seeing something that is part two dimensional and part three dimensional. I currently reproduce my drawings with my own giclee printer. This printer sprays on the ink to give an exceptional image. I create the reproductions myself to ensure the months of drawing, will be reflected in the quality of the reproduction.