Observational Drawing

An Introduction

WARM UP

• Get out your Homework!!!• All 6 Value Scales• Get out your Pencil Set (3 Pencils, Eraser,

Sharpener)

Observational Drawing

• OBSERVATIONAL DRAWING is the act of drawing from real life.

• The goal of observational drawing is a realistic representation of the 3D world on the 2D surface you are working on. Observational drawings can be done anywhere that you can find something that you are inspired to recreate.

• We will utilize several types of observational drawing exercises to warm up and refine our abilities throughout the year.

Contour Defined

• “Contour” is French for outline• Contour Drawing refers to drawings which are

line based, focusing on finding the outlines of necessary details in a subject.

Blind Contour

• Look at your subject.• Begin to follow the

subject’s contours with you eyes.

• Move the pencil to mimic your eyes movements on the paper.

• Don’t lift your pencil.• Don’t look at your work.

Contour Drawing

• This is similar to the Blind Contour, except you can look at your work and take your pencil off of the page.

• Focus on the largest, most important areas first, then work towards smaller details.

Cross Contour

• Cross Contour lines follow the path across a plane, rather than follow it outline.

• Cross Contour lines help to define depth within a quick sketch, as well as create a framework for shading.

Blended Shading

• Once you have a good understanding of the subjects contours and curves, you can start shading based on your understanding

• Start light, strengthening as you work.

• Don’t focus on a specific area, rather work all around your piece.

• Make sure your piece has a variety of tones, dark and light.