ABSTRACT
Photographs have been taken and used by artists over the years as an alternative to sketchbooks, and as an aid to memory. It can be difficult and frustrating for some people to draw and paint landscapes or portraits, without taking a break from their work, or returning another day. Photographs can be photocopied, and the copies drawn or painted over; or they can be cut out and used as collage, or as a specific image within a painting. Artwork can be saved and protected by photocopying in black and white, and stored in clear plastic sleeves in a file, for future use and reference. Although one endeavours to capture the real thing with pencil or brush, changing lights and all, photographs can be an invaluable aid to the artist. As well as a reference, they can also serve as inspiration to re-create and enhance a moment in time, in an abstract or figurative way, long after the moment has passed.
