Drawing with pen is an instant, unforgiving commitment and one that allows minimum errors.

I compose each idea digitally to construct the concept and correct the composition. After this stage the final digital image is my reference and inspiration. I begin with a basic pencil outline and then I commit with pen. As so much of the paper is clean I use very little pencil. I do not add pen to paper unless I have planned out the drawing first and know exactly how the finished piece will look. This is a very structured but necessary process to ensure the finished work is to my satisfaction.

After considerable experimentation I only use Arches 640gsm Hot Press paper which is of the highest quality and allows flexibility with ink. Arches have been making paper for over 500yrs and their watermark is instantly recognisable. My statement size pieces are 56cm x 76cm due to the size of their classic, flat sheet paper. You will always recognise the watermark in the corners of my original statement works and therefore will know it is an original drawing by Astra.

Unipin Fineliners are my preferred choice of pen. The ink is waterproof and archival, plus they are robust and precise. The colour ink is predominantly Sennelier and I also use Windsor and Newton for some specialist colours. In some of my works I experiment with Golden spray paint.