Drawing Essentials: A Guide to Drawing from Observation

Ideal for introductory studio art courses in drawing, Drawing Essentials: A Guide to Drawing from Observation, Second Edition, explains clearly and in depth the essentials of depicting form and space on a two-dimensional surface, focusing on the cultivation of observational skills, increased sensitivity, critical thinking, technical refinement, and knowledge of materials.FEATURES* Written by an award-winning artist with thirty years of teaching experience * Presents clear, direct explanations of drawing fundamentals including: the process of sighting; scaling techniques; creating meaningful line variation; methods for tonal development; creating effective still lifes; understanding the human figure, portraiture, and anatomy; color theory and application; perspective systems; using photos as references; and brainstorming to generate ideas* Provides helpful pointers on both group and individual critiques* Offers practical advice about traditional and nontraditional media and surfaces as well as alternative processes that can be combined with drawing* Includes a comprehensive appendix featuring more than eighty illustrations by twenty-one contemporary artists, a bibliography, and a list of supplementary readings

Table of Contents:
Preface Introduction 1. Essential Skills and Information: What Every Student Should Know About Drawing Sighting and the Use of a Sighting Stick The Principles of Composition: Theory versus Application The Golden Section Line Variation and Sensitivity Working with Value Structure The Illusion of Space and Depth on a Two-Dimensional Surface The Technique of Scaling to Determine Accurate Size Relationships Creating an Effective Still Life 2. Spatial Thinking and Visualization: The Essential Principles of Perspective Drawing An Introduction to Perspective The Terminology of Perspective Perspective and Cubes Using Perspective Grids Increasing Complexity in the Perspective Environment Constructing Ellipses in One-Point and Two-Point Perspective 3. Advanced Perspective Techniques Taking Perspective to the Next Level Mathematically Precise Cubes in Two-Point Perspective Using Measuring Lines for Equal and Unequal Divisions of an Area Inclined Planes in Perspective Geometric Solids and Transparent Construction Three-Point Perspective Suggested Perspective Exercises 4. Essential Drawing Principles in Relation to the Human Figure The Human Figure Gesture Drawing or Rapid Contour Drawing Enhancing the Illusion of Volume and Space in the Human Form An Introduction to Portraiture Mapping the Figure in Space The Figure and Anatomy 5. Color Theory and Application Understanding Color The Spatial and Volumetric Effects of Color Hints for Observing and Recording Color Drawing with Color Media Colored Pencils Pastels Oil Pastels Some Final Thoughts about Working with Color 6. Developing Ideas, Resolving Problems, and Evaluating Results Ideation: Generating Ideas Diagnosing Problems in Your Work Intentions versus Results The Importance of Critiques Key Questions for Critiquing Work 7. Drawing Materials and Processes Media and Materials for Drawing Transfer Techniques Combined with Drawing Appendix: Contemporary Art: A Gallery of Drawings Glossary of Art Terms Bibliography Index

About the Author :
Deborah Rockman is Chair of the Drawing and Printmaking Programs at Kendall College of Art and Design, Ferris State University.