This Week’s Blog – It All Starts with the Eyes

After the Ride to the Wall, I’ve still got that sense of reflection running through me — that quiet mix of respect and gratitude that stays with you afterwards. I think that’s what led me to start Blu.

Now, I know some artists begin by blocking in tones — rubbing charcoal across the paper to break up the white and find the light and shadow early on. I don’t work that way. I like to start with clean paper, almost like a blank conversation waiting to happen, and let the drawing grow slowly.

For me, it always starts with the eyes. You’re right — that’s where the story begins. But it’s more than that; it’s where the soul of the portrait lives. If the eyes aren’t right, the soul is lost. Once I’ve got them down, everything else follows — the nose, the structure, the lines and creases that show a life that’s been lived. The eyes lead me, quietly guiding each mark.

Blu has taken me just over four hours so far, spread across three days. I’m not rushing him — some portraits deserve patience. There’s a quiet strength in his face, a calmness that feels earned. I’ve been using Cretacolor Nero pencils for the detail — they give me control and a lovely depth without shine — and when I’ve needed to push the darks further, I’ve brought in a bit of Faber-Castell Pitt charcoal. The two together let me shape those deeper shadows and textures without losing the light.

Working on Blu has reminded me why I draw. It’s not just about likeness; it’s about connection. Maybe it’s the ride still sitting with me, but I keep thinking how every face tells a story — of courage, loss, pride, or quiet reflection. Blu feels like a continuation of that — a way to capture that same sense of remembrance, but in a different form.

So that’s been my week — no rushing, just slow, steady work, letting the eyes lead the way, and making sure the soul shines through.

Right then, time for another brew before I get back to it.