Richard Brown is an artist … an artist dedicated to working with pencil and
paper.

Although Richard has experience with many different media including oils,
watercolor, and pastel, the humble graphite pencil has become the focus of
his artistic efforts of late. Some might say that this focus has become a
passion, and in fact, graphite pencil art represents his sole means of artistic
expression today.

Richard aspires to achieve photo-realism in a drawing and this obsession with
detail is probably an extension of Richard's previous studies. Richard is a
mechanical engineer by training, but an artist by choice.

"My goal is to achieve photo-realism using only graphite pencils, erasers,
blending stumps ... and of course, a keen eye for detail, and an unhealthy
reservoir of patience.
I use several different types of pencils in the process of drawing.
I use conventional pencils of course, but I also like to use mechanical pencils,
and drafting pencils to push for more detail in the drawing.

A typical drawing will be built up with many layers of graphite.
I tend to build up the drawing in it's entirety, rather than fragmenting the
drawing ... that way I can compare sections and correct any tonal values as I
progress with the image.

I use photographic reference, and I like to have many pictures (taken from a
different perspective) of the subject at my disposal, since each focal point
will reveal more of the subject matter. It's surprising how oftentimes a
photograph washes out detail, or even worse, can be misleading. With
respect to photographs, more is better.

My goal is not only to make the image faithful to the photograph ... but also
to improve upon the photographic reference. In other words ... make the
photo better.

I get the biggest kick out of hearing people insist that my drawing is a photo.
That is my measure of success".

Richard has studied at the Baxter Lake Fine Arts Academy. His works are
currently held in many private and corporate collections throughout North
America.

Richard was one of the award winners recognized by American Artist 2004
and 2005 Drawing Competition www.myamericanartist.com.

"I love black and white. There is something timeless and enduring about a
black and white image that just simply feels right. And I can't articulate why
... but relative to color ... a black and white image creates a unique emotional
connection and bond with the viewer."

"If a picture is worth a 1000 words, my goal is to create an image that is
worth 1001 words. I am not satisfied until I have pushed the image as far as
I can in terms of realism."

And here's something for those of you who may have persevered to read this
far.
I have always enjoyed quotations, and I would like
to share some of my favorites with you.

You will discover that I have embedded several quotations
with an artistic or creative bent, within my website.
All you have to do is switch to any other screen such as my home page,
and click on the brownblackandwhite header.
Happy hunting.

I hope that you find these words of wisdom as inspiring as I have.