Hello from Norway :)

Camomilla · 13 Feb 2016, 15:29

Thought I would write an introduction to let all of you know a little bit about Camomilla I'm Norwegian, 43 years old and work full time as a graphic designer. I've always loved to draw, but haven't done much of it the last twenty years. In school I was the "talented one". But talent only gets you that far, after that there's acquired skill and practise that counts. I could never see myself as an independent artist, so I've had my career in graphic design. And it's nice, I still like it, but I need more art in my life So I figure it's time to try to make something of it, although I'm not sure what just yet

So - this is my status in the middle of February 2016: I'm considering myself being a slightly experienced beginner. I've invested in a sketchbook (Moleskin) late last year. I've invested in a Galaxy Note 10.1 2014 ed. with a pressure sensitive pen (Bamboo Feel stylus, to replace the s-pen that comes with the device) for the money I got for my last birthday. So I'm covered with both analogue and digital sketching tools. To try and increase productivity, I've given myself the challenge to draw every day for a hundred days in the new year. I post my drawings and doodles on my Facebook with the hashtag #dailydoodle2016 - which is a bit misleading 'cos it's not finished sketches each day, but often pieces that take several days to finish. But still, I'm drawing every day, and that's important to make it a bigger part of my life again

I found this place through youtube - I started following Jake Parker a while back, and then found Will Terrys youtube. I have not yet taken any classes at SVS, but there's several that I think would be useful for me I love the idea of online learning, it can be fitted into an otherwise busy schedule. With a husband, two children and a full-time job, time is my most limited asset

So now I'm looking for a community. Somewhere I can interact with other people who share my interest in and passion for art. A place I can learn and grow, and give and get feedback.

Thank you all for reading through this far too long introduction, and hope you can ignore any spelling or grammar-mistakes - english is not my spoken language

Looking forward to getting to know SVS better - cheers

Rich Green · 13 Feb 2016, 15:38

@Camomilla Welcome! This is a great group!

Camomilla · 13 Feb 2016, 16:02

@Rich-Green Thank you I've jumped right in and started a sketchbook here:
http://forum.svslearn.com/topic/1160/camomilla-doodles-draws-and-sometimes-swears

Bobby Aquitania · 13 Feb 2016, 16:36

Welcome Camomilla, I thought everyone in Norway had to have a preapproved Norse name? Maybe I'm thinking of Iceland or Finland? Anyway if you'd like a good challenge from SVS that isn't daily but monthly, look at the link above that says 3rd Thursday and click the first post by Aaron, Will's son... it gives the details, and if you win, you can get a free class!

Camomilla · 13 Feb 2016, 17:45

@Bobby-Aquitania Thank you I'm not sure what you mean by pre-approved Norse name - my name IRL is Cathrine Helle. That's the same name-convention that most of Europe (and the States) use with a first name and a surname. Helle is my married name, my maiden-name was Magnus. Iceland, however, has the old name-convention where they have their fathers first name and -son or -daughter as their surname. This was the case a few hundred years ago in Norway as well, but I guess we were closer knit to the rest of Europe.

I'll be sure to check out 3rd Thursday, thank you

Leontine · 13 Feb 2016, 18:02

Welcome from The Netherlands! Nice to meet you here and I hope that youll find yourself comfy and at home. Nice Santa youve posted. Cant wait to see more.

MOO · 13 Feb 2016, 18:35

Velkommen! Jeg er Amerikaner. I am trying to learn Norwegian from Duolingo. My dad's side of the family came from Sogn og Fjordane in the 1800's Your English is great! I love the idea of the 100 day daily doodle. I am working on a book as a learning tool. I have done everything backwards so far You might like the Creative Composition class. I just started it recently and have already benefited from it with my project. I am traditional though someday I guess I will try digital. It would be easier to redo over and over as I do now, digitally, I think. (If I can get the hang of it). Look forward to seeing your work!

Camomilla · 14 Feb 2016, 10:40

@Leontine Thank you We've been to the Netherlands a few times, sooo nice! So much art, and such friendly people! Will be posting more today, and checking out the other sketchbooks

@Marsha-Kay-Ottum-Owen Tusen takk Awesome that you want to learn Norwegian! My grandfather was born in Boston, Massachusetts (is that how it's written?). My great grandparents migrated from Norway in the early 1900's and then moved back when times was better back home. We still have some family in the States, unfortunatly noone I know personally. Let me know if you need help with Norwegian, I'm quite good at it

Christopher Sanchez · 14 Feb 2016, 13:34

Welcome. We share similar stories. I know you will find the art inspiration and education in this group.

lmrush · 15 Feb 2016, 00:32

Welcome Camomilla !!!

MOO · 15 Feb 2016, 02:10

@Camomilla Takk! You spelled Boston, Massachusettes right-which is no small feat!

Will Terry · 15 Feb 2016, 03:14

Welcome Camomilla! That's a great goal - 100 days in 2016!

Camomilla · 15 Feb 2016, 11:17

Thank you all for welcoming me to your community - really looking forward to spending time here!