Thursday, November 09, 2006

Stockholm Concert Hall


It´s been kind of quiet here for a while due to work that always builds up around this time of the year, but the workload is finally getting back to normal and so is my drawing habit.

When I went to art school fourteen years ago, our teacher brought a cellist to school and let us sit and draw while this very skillful musician gave a concert. It was a magic drawing moment, and last night I was lucky enough to experience it again, with a few more musicians to choose from (and a slightly higher ticket price).

We went to a Sibelius concert with the Royal Philharmonic Orchestra of Stockholm, a real musical treat, and before we went I decided I was going to draw at least one musician while there. I chose my most quiet pen, the extra fine Lamy Safari (I know, I use the Lamy all the time, but I assure you - it´s not only generally good to draw with, it´s good to draw quietly with as well) and a sketchbook with very smooth paper in it, so as not to make any noise.

I tried to be as discrete as possible, so these are very cautious drawings. I had a great view over the orchestra, and some of the audience sitting behind it (strangely enough), and drew the whole concert through.

I had the same feeling drawing during this concert as I´ve had sometimes during conferences and lectures - it seems that drawing sharpens my listening. I had the grandest musical experience even though I was totally concentrated on drawing. Anyone else noticed the same thing?

13 comments:

Teri said...

Wonderful drawings Nina. Everytime I read about you using your Lami pen I know I need one. Hey, Santa will be coming.

Nancy Van Blaricom said...

Bravo, Bravo !

Such fun in your drawings, I can tell you enjoyed yourself.

Anonymous said...

These are really impressive! I'm always afraid that if I start to draw I'll miss out on the other things going on around me. You inspire me to try. Thanks for posting these.

Margaret McCarthy Hunt said...

great job!!!

Jana Bouc said...

These are terrific. I especially like the last one of the conductor. I find that sometimes the music or stories I'm listening to when I draw get embedded in the artwork (to me anyway).

Anonymous said...

Finally something new! :)
The one on top is my favorite. And you made me search through my disks for Sibelius but - nothing! What a shame. Bach everywhere. Well, a good reason to do some Amazon shopping ...

littlemithi said...

These are lovely Nina! I've just been to see a friend and her folk band perform - don't know why I didn't think to take my sketch book along. Thanks for the idea (and for your comment on my blog!)

Anonymous said...

Great drawings, Nina. It really captures the spirit of the concert.

Anonymous said...

First of all, the sketches are excellent. How you managed to capture these musicians despite the movement is beyond me.
About listening while drawing -- absolutely. I find that drawing helps me tune in, partly because i narrow in on the visual and helps the listening become more focused.

Michael Emerald said...

These portraits are very good. Lots of feeling, particularly the cellist. Do you play anything? Years ago I was 4th in the state violin.

Bobby Breidholt said...

Nice. Sounds like an awesome venue for drawing!

Alison said...

These are awesome - I find music helps me to concentrate if I'm familiar wit it but then I can't really remember having listened to it if I'm sketching at the same time

Bill said...

Great work, Nina. I'm impressed (and meant to comment sooner). That's tough drawing, certainly beyond my present abilties. You captured these people beautifully and with such deft pen work. Wow!
Bill