In both figure drawing and my abstract work I want the finished image to be necessary. My abstract work is entirely process-based, and the marks tend to make the leap into something necessary when I give up what I want the picture to be and throw away my need for resolution. 

Figure drawing starts with a necessary form. To get a good image out of that form, I again try to find openings that bypass my preconceptions of what the resolved image should be. The best marks come out of these openings and create a deeper connection to the figure.

Figure drawing teaches me to pay attention to what the line wants even if it is different from what I see. When I pay attention, the lines go toward the greatest tension and strength.