HE DIDN'T KNOW WHO HE WAS

Copyright 1995, Norman Sasowsky

Preface

About two years ago I decided to use my computer to create images. I had resisted this move, preferring to limit its use to word processing.

A friend brought Deluxe Paint II to my attention. I liked the program because it was relatively simple and allowed me to make the transition from traditional drawing and painting fairly easily.

I wanted to accept the pixel evidence of the drawings, and at the same time not have the images shout: made by a computer. I was not interested in emulating traditional media (e.g.: pastels). I was surprised by how I was able to use the mouse to create a variety of marks.

In order to get used to the program, to find out what it and I could do, I decided to experiment with the different tools and techniques available, and limit myself to black and white. I don't usually focus on heads but this seemed to be a convenient element to use. I drew a series of heads, actually quite quickly, using a variety of techniques and enjoying the great ease in making changes.

Once I had a collection of "heads" I got the idea of doing a small book dealing with the concept of art lessons. After many attempts to do this I gave up realizing that the images and the text did not add up to a book. Then it occured to me, - as I resisted letting go of the images I had made - and, frankly, gotten attached to, to see them as different parts of myself. Thus, a concept was born for a book dealing with identity.

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