The Pencil Box - Featured Artists - December 2023

Star Magnolia by Clasien Pantelmann
9x12 inches, colored pencil on Grafix drafting film

The fragrance of these beautiful blooms in early Spring is just heavenly. I planted this shrub 23 years ago in my garden in memory of my Mom who had just passed away. For ten years I enjoyed this harbinger of Spring with its marvelous intricate petals. Unfortunately, I had to move and leave this shrub behind. Now through my art I can once more commemorate my Mom. In February of this year I had to store all my art supplies for a pending move. Finally, after settling in my new place and getting organized, I was able to focus on my art again. This is the first piece I have done after a six-month hiatus and it made me so happy to be back at my art.

ABOUT CLASIEN PANTELMANN:

Clasien has been an established and published colored pencil artist for many years. Her art career started upon early retirement. She specializes in florals and animal and human portraits. Many of her art pieces reside in private collections internationally as well as in Canada.
FACEBOOK: Clasien's Art



Blue eyes by Eva Mariaca
11.5x16.5 inches, colored pencil on Fabriano Disegno 4 smooth

Behaviour of lamas was my diploma thesis at the University. Since that time, lamas have been one of my favorite animals. When I saw this cute lady with beautiful blue eyes, I felt an urgent need to try to draw her. Even though I haven't been drawing for 25 years, and I started with color pencils a few months ago, I decided to take up this challenge. And it was a real challenge for me. Crazy fur on top of the head and furry ears took a lot out of me, but I did it. I loved every single pencil stroke, and I have learned a lot from this drawing - e.g., not to be scared, and to do what we want, what we love, because finally we will make it!

ABOUT EVA MARIACA:

Eva Mariaca is an artist living in Czech Republic. She went in for drawing a few months ago after 25 years long break, when she fell in love with color pencils. Through color pencils she relaxes, recover strenghts and express herself.



Majesty by Kimberly Vogel
11x14 Inches, colored pencil on Bristol Vellum

Many years ago, my husband and I were visiting the Toronto Zoo, and came upon the tiger exhibit. This beautiful creature was stretched out across a grassy hilltop, gazing off into the distance. He seemed so thoughtful and majestic, the perfect combination of beauty, wisdom and strength. I was able to take a few photos of him, and this particular image has always been one of my favourites. I finally had the courage to draw this magnificent tiger this year. It never ceases to amaze me how beautiful and inspiring nature and wildlife can be.

ABOUT KIMBERLY VOGEL:

Kimberly Vogel is a coloured pencil artist from Alberta, Canada. She enjoys drawing a variety of wildlife and pets, and bringing the beauty of nature to life on paper. She also works full time, and is a mom to two amazing kids, and one loveable dog named Finn.
FACEBOOK: Kimberly Vogel Art



Bee Happy by Susan Brannigan
9x12 inches, colored pencil on Bristol smooth

I've always been drawn (no pun intended) to colored pencil. Years ago, my Art professors did not considered CP to be a serious medium--has that changed! I am in awe of the work that is being done in colored pencil now! So I've been inspired to dust off my pencils after many years of pursuing other creative outlets that involved my 9 (yes, 9!) children. Lily is my 'baby' and she was sitting by the window in the sunlight. She looked up at me and gave me that smile…the last portrait I drew of her was over 17 years ago. I believe it was in one of Ann's early showcases as well!

ABOUT SUSAN BRANNIGAN:

Susan received her BFA from Aquinas College, Grand Rapids, Mi with a major in drawing. After many years of crafting, crocheting and costuming with her children, she has found her pencils again.