On this date, we were given an enthralling demonstration by one of our members, the very talented Graham Jefford. Graham is probably best known for his landscapes in oils but the demo showed he is equally skilled in creating them in charcoal.

As always in art, producing the desired result comes from using the right materials and tools, as well as inspiration and technique.

Graham covered in detail the differences between natural willow charcoal and compressed charcoal, a manufactured product which produces a darker, blacker shade than its natural counterpart. He also described how to make liquid charcoal by using gum arabic as a binder.

Using the right paper was also dealt with, Graham stressing the need for a smooth toothed surfaced watercolour or drawing paper, not too rough, not shiny smooth. He used Winsor & Newton drawing paper for the demo.

In creating the picture subtraction was as important as addition, in order to create highlights, means to this included kitchen towel, putty and plastic rubbers(both filthy from repeated use with charcoal!) and an eraser in retractable pencil format. Sadly though, he did not resort to the proverbial stale bread.

Altogether it was a very inspiring evening, showing the possibilities of charcoal. Below are 2 images of Graham’s picture, around half way through and completed.