Riding a bike in the forest


Eventually I came up with a slightly different composition and went ahead with this drawing.

Initial Sketch

New drawing of a lady riding a bike through the forest. I was watching a movie recently and there was this scene that held a lot of tension. It was of a lady in a dark green forest on a bike. Nothing else. It stuck with me. I did a few quick sketches and then eventually came up with this.

I thought the first drawing was a little too realistic. So I morphed it slightly into what you can see below.

First Version

I like this. I think it became too realistic? Too polished? I felt the need to do it again.

The one spot that I remember being proud of was the tree background in the top right corner. I felt like I got a good sense of depth.

Second Version

I wanted something that was more primal. I don’t think I pulled it off. Looking at it now, 10 years later, I appreciate it.

I don't think I am quite done here. I'd like to abstract it even a little more. I like the head turning over the shoulder and the idea that something off the page is menacing an otherwise breezy summer jaunt.

3rd Version

This wasn’t working for me very well when I stopped. I think I like it more now.

This is an incomplete start.


Katherine Scott. At her manor with her drawing (photo from 2026)

It makes me happy to think that the first sale I made was to Katherine. A great person.

Thanks for liking my art Katherine

“As a long time bicyclist, I relate to this picture. I also cycled to work in a dress wearing fancy shoes.

The amazing details of Cliff’s creation makes it appear like a photograph. As I look at the picture daily, I wonder why the woman is looking back. Perhaps she is leaving behind part of her life. ”
— Katherine Scott - 2026

Previous
Previous

Unfinished Standing Matisse

Next
Next

Untitled Abstraction #19