A bit about my Process: part 3

Apple Tree Man is up next. He hasn't ventured out of my sketchbook into a print just yet although I did create a very special watercolour commission of him for a great client who found that the sketch really spoke to them. This one started with a story and a walk.

Sketches for “Apple Tree Man” by Lizzie Ault

One that started with both

Apple Tree Man started with a walk to an ancient orchard in a nearby village and a story read in "Botanical Folk Tales of Britain and Ireland" by Lisa Schneidau. Traditionally, writes Schnaidau, we are supposed to leave the last apple on the tree for the Apple Tree Man during harvest and at this time of year we wassail (sing to) the orchard so that the spirits (like the apple tree man) will ensure a good harvest for the coming year. It is a lovely ritual of hope for a bleak time of year.

Pencil sketch of apple tree by Lizzie Ault

At the orchard I sketched the old apple trees for a long time, making detailed studies of the bark and leaves. I was serenaded by a Greater Spotted Woodpecker as I drew. I also spent a lot of time just looking and remembering which is so important. Artists can build up a bank of visual memories they can then draw/paint etc. in the way that a musician may build up a repertoire of songs. In both instances this takes many years of practice. Sketching from life, looking, remembering and drawing from memory are all part of this practice. 

Sketches for “Apple Tree Man” by Lizzie Ault

At home I researched mosses and also various species which are specific to orchards. I decided not to include much of that in the end but may expand on it in the future. I have drawn faces a lot in my life and don’t find it hard to imagine one into being but I did look at photography of wrinkled skin to inform the apple tree man’s appearance. 

“Apple Tree Man” in progress

I can credit Brian Froud for a huge amount of inspiration in creating what I’m starting to call my nature spirit series. They are humanoid figures which include elements of relevant flora and fauna in their appearance. The apple tree man has apple leaves sprouting from his hair, skin like ancient tree bark and a mossy cloak to allow him to camouflage well in the orchard.

Swatches for “Apple Tree Man”

I have yet to make Apple Tree Man into a drypoint etching in the way I have done with the Tiddy Munn but he’s on my list along with a selection of female characters which form part of my group exhibition at the Babylon Gallery this summer. 

If you're interested in commissioning me for a special piece of art. Don't hesitate to get in touch.