Sketching people is a way for me to understand them. Models I hire tell me about themselves, their family history, their friendships and how they see the world. They question me about my history, bringing forgotten adventure back with smiles and with tears. People I sketch at Jake's become acquaintances, and then friends. Sketching, I become a better listener and see others points of view a bit clearer. There is a intensity to sketching allowing us to see more clearly. Moments of understanding come about.
Without the pencil in my hand placing lines where needed, I would be forming my point of view to counter opinions coming my way. As I sketch and study my subject, my mind is more receptive to what I hear. I am not in to debating or thinking of my own experiences - I am solely into who my subject is.
The homeless man wants me to understand and see his worth. He tells me his story and I see a different person before me. Weathered lines are more important and carry more dignity, influencing the weight I place on my pencil. I draw with my entire body. Whether it be dignity or beauty, my entire body is affected as I sketch. Any stress I may have fades away as I sketch.
