• Things look bad when Rhode Island Roy, The Roughest Rooster in the World, comes to town!

    This is a funny story that was part of the Animal Crackers series that I illustrated for Rose Impey, back in the Orchard Books days.

    I was the last artist to be commissioned to produce artwork for the origianal Jackanory before it was withdrawn ( and then revived years later.)

    It is told by the wonderful, and very young actor, John Barrowman who went on to greater things in Dr Who as Captain Jack Harkness.

    This is posted under fair use. I am the owner of copyright on the images. All material ©BBC ©RoseImpey and ©shoorayner

  • Drawing is one of the most affordable and rewarding hobbies you can take up—it requires nothing more than a pencil and the back of a used envelope. Unlike other pastimes that can cost a fortune with little to show for it, drawing offers phenomenal returns on your time. From the paper napkins of famous artists displayed in museums to impromptu sketches on tablecloths, the simplicity of drawing has captured ideas and moments for centuries. It’s a bargain that not only sparks creativity but also builds invaluable skills like observation, persistence, and empathy.

    Ready to dive in? Grab any pencil and start sketching. Remember, it’s about practice, not perfection. Subscribe to my newsletter and to the Shoo Rayner Drawing Channel for more tips, tutorials, and inspiration to keep your artistic journey alive. With every line you draw, you’re unlocking your creative potential. So pick up that pencil, keep practicing, and see where your imagination and observation take you!

    In this video, I’ll be sharing the fifth Golden Secret from my book, The Golden Secrets of Drawing.

    Get the book here:
    Amazon in the USA https://amzn.to/4gBsb3L
    Amazon in the UK https://amzn.to/3TK7IzQ

    In this video, I’ll be sharing the fifth Golden Secret from my book, The Golden Secrets of Drawing.

    Get the book here:
    Amazon in the USA https://amzn.to/4gBsb3L
    Amazon in the UK https://amzn.to/3TK7IzQ

  • A sketchbook is more than just a pad of paper; it’s your portable studio and a gateway to creativity. With a sketchbook and pencil in hand, you’re always ready to capture moments of inspiration. Keeping these tools with you wherever you go ensures there are no excuses not to draw. It doesn’t matter what brand or type of sketchbook you use – the best one is the one you have on hand. Forget perfection and start creating – every sketch is a step forward.

    One of the greatest joys of maintaining a sketchbook is witnessing your growth as an artist. Each page becomes a snapshot of your progress, a chronological record of your creative journey. Even if you feel your latest work isn’t your best, flipping through past sketches reveals how far you’ve come. Beyond being a tool for practice, a sketchbook becomes a battery of ideas, a place to experiment with styles, capture fleeting inspiration, and even jot down thoughts. Over time, it transforms into a personal diary of your artistic life—proof of your dedication to the craft. So grab a pencil, start sketching, and watch your creativity flourish!

    A Sketchbook and Pen are like a mini studio that is ready for you to start drawing in an instant – no excuses to start drawing at the drop of a hat! A sketchbook is the best investment you’ll ever make!

    In this video, I’ll be sharing the fourth Golden Secret from my book, The Golden Secrets of Drawing.

    Get the book here:
    Amazon in the USA https://amzn.to/4gBsb3L
    Amazon in the UK https://amzn.to/3TK7IzQ