![](https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjCfKuB2c-7Hhqqjz5pqqTqYUvNrVrQM7fb_f8pAed9Tt9bQ9mLbYqmHoHKfrmkNOzXkR-FWEl7bRK28Ck8ZzJVCHVI8pCof8xnZDT-g0BtxNKnm6aAzn5sMsabagmSGD6Dlc4jSr1djf4/s320/Instinct003.jpg)
I had two similar ideas for this weeks Illustration Friday idea but in my efforts to do something from memory, I realised I was running before I could walk. I'm trying to improve my drawing skills so I shall limit myself to life drawing for a while (using pictures when I'm in a tight spot - like this one from Getty Images) and see if that doesn't help me get better. Only then will I go back to drawing from imagination and memory. Hopefully the slower journey will have fewer mishaps.
![](https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiNQLPfZ_Bs0vAJcWSXJAW2bWDNI1tFvbgdSAnsuWguor-Wy_iQsLOxE4chPYNseO1KDlMR-ocdFmHwHH-AeR5VPxFzbpBvKvElfh60tYwCMNF_f97o45x1HPmzOKb6RLT79V1GbsYDaBw/s320/Instinct005.jpg)
In the meantime I get to enjoy doing one more thing right. In this case, a chance discovery of Picasa's compatibility with my scanner, has given me improved pictures. I'm not losing the mid-tones as I was before and it makes for a fuller illustration even in pencil. It, however, also picks up all the eraser marks as well. I can't have everything but I'd rather too much than too little.