Inspired by abstract geometric shapes led me to do a series of collages of train engines, boxcars and others. This design is a gray boxcar with the number five in the top right corner.

I begin by doing a detailed pencil and colored pencil drawing of the section. It is a rough but accurate drawing of basic shapes, and I focus on the actual local color of each shape. I use the grid system to transfer the drawing to an Ampersand gessoed panel, because working with collage materials — water & glue — I want the support stable and strong, and this is the best support because it does not buckle.