Black lines darting across a white surface could either be writing or drawing - and in their simplicity, they are fitted to be given or received as a message. My current unending series of line-drawings continues to be a favourite form because of this graceful usefulness, this ability to be at once art and notation.

       Charcoal is beautiful in how fundamental it is - charred wood has been used to draw and write since history began. Certainly, my own sketches may not be as basic as this makes them sound. A pencil draft is often the beginning - I may go over it with the charcoal and a degree of care - may even trace for a cleaner version and finish with the charcoal on that. But my goal is that one visual message which flies toward the eye, carrying an image with life and clarity.