I was then unaware of the secret, the power and the truth of drawing. I just drew because the finished product gave me satisfaction. Today, drawing is fundamental for me. In other words, I don't think there can be a painting if there isn't first a drawing. In fact, nowadays, I paint onto the drawing. Then I add a layer of pastels to give the first trace of colour, and finally I apply the oil. So there are three stages of work, but the basis is always the drawing. I get a big immediate satisfaction from the drawing, and helps me see whether or not the painting will be good. And I don't move on to colour unless I am first convinced by the drawing.
(Mario Lupo, from the book 'Story Of Life, Story Of Painting')