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Drawing the Amulet: From Ancient Stone to Modern Ink

  By Simon Burdge Sketched at the British Museum, this drawing explores the symbolic power of ancient objects and the modern meanings we bring to them. During a recent visit to the British Museum, I was stopped in my tracks by a small carved figure made of amethyst. Its shape felt ambiguous—was it a figure gripping a sword, or simply someone folding their hands in stillness? I was drawn to that uncertainty and began sketching on the spot. Later, while revisiting the sketch, it reminded me of an amulet—an object designed not just to be looked at, but to be held close, trusted, and carried—a kind of spiritual tool. In the drawing, I used layers of blue and black ink, with energetic crosshatch marks and long brushstrokes to evoke a kind of atmosphere—a hard, ancient sky pressing down, or perhaps a protective energy pushing outward. The figure became less about the details and more about presence—a guardian, of sorts. Then and Now: The Amulet's Role In ancient times, amulets were often...

The Blue Pot with an Orange Handle

  This abstract piece began as a spontaneous sketch during a visit to the Tate. I can’t quite remember the original artwork it referenced; frankly, this version no longer resembles it much. That’s part of the beauty of working from memory and feeling—letting the sketch evolve freely once back in the studio. What started as a quick observational note became something entirely its own, shaped more by intuition than fidelity. Sometimes, what stays with you isn’t the image, but the impression it left

I am Late

 This sketch was done quickly from a train window, capturing someone running to catch a train on the opposite platform. It’s stylized, focusing more on the energy and movement than strict detail. I coloured it in later, but it stands out how that fleeting moment of motion is still alive in the piece. Something about the rush of life in transit makes it so compelling . #trainart #quicksketch #motioninart #trainart #sketchbook #quicksketch #motioninart #energeticart

A Frozen Moment.

  This drawing was done quickly during a life drawing session, capturing a moment as the model looked over her shoulder. I added the background and flesh tones later, focusing on the figure itself in the moment. I find the note I left on the drawing interesting: "frozen moment of action; the critical moment." This could have been the theme for the session, but even without that context, the drawing feels like it’s suspended in time, emphasising that precise, fleeting moment of movement. #charcoaldrawing #lifedrawing #figurativeart #artiststudy #sketchbookpages #artwork #charcoal

Two Feet in Bed

Two Feet in Bed A chalk drawing on paper or possibly even oil pastel in four colours arranged in a row, interrupted perhaps by teeth or feet, subject unknown. This piece was created using either chalk or oil pastel on paper, showcasing four bold colours arranged in a row, interspersed with shapes that might resemble teeth or feet. The subject remains open to interpretation.  #abstractart #oilpastel #chalkdrawing #contemporaryart #artprocess  

The Secret

The Secret A charcoal sketch featuring two heads—one turning towards the other—and a figure beneath them. This piece was likely drawn during a life drawing class, although the exact date remains unknown. I adore the raw, expressive quality that charcoal brings to these studies.  Please contact Simon Burdge using my email address or the DM in my profile. The shop is also visible on my profile. #charcoaldrawing #lifedrawing #figurativeart #artiststudy #sketchbookpages #artwork #charcoal See more at Simon Burdge Website  

Gouache Flower

  A gouache painting of a Flower. I use the shape of a flower pretty regularly. I find it a very satisfying shape. On this occasion, I coloured it with a variety of gouache paint. This flower shape is one I return to often in my artwork—there’s something deeply satisfying about its form. For this piece, I used a mix of vibrant gouache paints to bring it to life. Don't hesitate to contact Simon Burdge at my email address or via the direct message in my profile. The shop is also visible on my profile. #flowerart  #gouachepainting  #abstractfloral  #artistprocess  #creativeexpression