Learning Objectives:
Students will be able to demonstrate technical accuracy through observational drawing. Students will also be able to demonstrate an understanding of value and shading and designing an effective composition.
Print / Download Friendly VersionMini-Assignment:
1. Set up an egg with one light source. Using graphite, draw it with all the appropriate shading in your sketchbook.
2. Crumple up a sheet of paper and light it with one light source. Using graphite, draw it with all the appropriate shading in your sketchbook.
Materials:
White Paper
Graphite
Wooden drawer, shoe box or another box of similar size.
Personal objects of your choice (at least 10). Bring a collection of objects of various sizes, textures, colors and values.
Small flashlight or portable light that plugs in
Info:
Drawing from observation is one of the oldest methods used to train the hand to draw what you see. Almost all artists throughout history have started off by drawing what they saw. In this exercise you will be forcing yourself to slow down and accurately record what is in front of you.
Process:
Working on a sheet of white drawing paper, and using a range objects brought from home, create a still life. Write a paragraph about why you picked the objects you picked, and what the objects say about you as well as reflecting on the drawing that you have done and what you think went well and what did not, and why. Use graphite to carefully create shadows and highlights. There are no lines; only combinations of lights and darks. Draw carefully and slowly.
The still life you create should revolve around a wood drawer or box. Arrange your items so that there are varying shades of light and dark, rough and smooth, etc.
