Paper Grain

The decision on what kind of surface use ultimately affects the mood of the drawing. There are so many kinds of paper and so little time. I tend to like the “wove paper” that printmakers use. The darks don’t get as shiny when working with graphite because they’re less likely to get opaque without serious effort. Texture requires a more active engagement. Paradoxically I find surface texture distracting when I’m painting but I enjoy seeing artists like Velazquez use surface texture to full advantage.