Drawing Tip with the Letter "O"

I’ve been having a great time these past few mornings by learning to draw.

Hmm, I don’t know if it’s really drawing, maybe more like doodling.

Well, anyway, I thought I’d turn you on to what I’ve been doing and maybe you’d want in on the fun too.

As you know, I’m an avid mind mapper.  In fact, Michael Deutch, Mindjet’s evangelist (the software who produces the best mind mapping software around) has nicked name me the “happy mind mapper.” That’s because every time we’re on the phone together I’m excited, stoked really, on all the new mind maps I’m creating and the new cool ways MindManager version 8 is allowing me to plan and manage.

During my tweeting a few months ago, I found and began following the @mindmapdrawer.  Behind the scenes the mindmapdrawer is Paul.  And Paul has the Web site:  Mind Map Inspiration.  Well, Paul has these kits for mind mappers you can buy, and one of his kits teaches you how to draw small.

Hmm, I remember about seven years ago I took a summer pencil drawing class.  It was the beginning level at the local community center.  I explained to the instructor at the first class that all I wanted to learn was to add things to my mind maps.  Of course, the instructor had no idea what mind maps was, so I explained the basic concept and showed him my illustrations in my drawing notebook.  He looked at me funny which I kind of expected even before I signed up for the class.  It was a fun class but I really didn’t learn much to improve my mind maps.  I think the teacher thought I was a looney-tune.  But I sure did have fun.

Sorry, got off on the beaten path there for a moment.  Memories have a tendency to do that, don’t they?

Well, just recently, Paul, started offering free drawing tips on his Mind Map Inspiration blog.  So, I started doodling around with them.  I went and found my drawing pencils (colors and many shades of grays) placed them in a pen cup and set it on my desk.  And every morning since I’ve been doodling away and practicing.

This morning I was even trying it out on my pen tablet. 

Here’s the result…

If you compare his to mine at (drawing tip No 4), I know, I know, I’ve got a lot more practicing to do.  But the fun is heavenly.

If you’d like more info, here are the resources:

Mindjet’s MindManager 8 software

Twitter:  You can follow Michael Deutch at @michaeldeutch.  You can follow Paul @mindmapdrawer.  You can access the Mind Map Inspiration blog with the drawing tips by clicking here.  You can follow me @catherinefranz.

Paul’s drawing e-book, the one I love is here. I bought a few for gifts too! You don’t really need to just use them in mind maps.

Have some fun today…draw funny characters inside O’s.  use them in your books, your articles, and more.  Share your fun with the world, no matter what face appears.

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