About the Wind-Sail Drawings

Drawing is a direct way for humans to materialize their ideas. It can involve capturing observations or to conjure mental images. Over time, I've enjoyed exploring what I call "remote" drawing, where I experiment with methods that distance the artist from direct hand involvement.

Extending the reach of the human hand, such as with a long stick or similar tool, has been well documented, notably in images of Henri Matisse using such a method. The ability to have distance from the drawing surface offers an alternative and intriguing perspective.

While I found the extended arm approach interesting, I wanted to push my boundaries further without entirely eliminating the human touch in drawing. To achieve this, I devised various techniques. One involved modifying a remote-control model car to hold multiple pens for marking surfaces. Another method utilized a wind-sail with pens attached to its trailing line.

Both techniques facilitated remote application of the drawing medium, while also introducing an element of surprise through that very interaction with the remote devices. Although I controlled the remote model car to some extent, it retained a degree of remoteness. Similarly, I ensured the wind-sail remained tethered to prevent it from veering too far off course in strong winds.

Through these methods, I produced numerous wind-sail drawings and a few paintings, some of which are shown here.

Linda Sgoluppi Art