Tips and Lessons on Sketching and Drawing: Part 1

Recommendations based on sketches and studies in

my "Women of the World" series

In my previous blog post, I shared thoughts about setting a goal to complete ten studies by the end of March as part of a Women of the World series. This goal was a fun and challenging way to keep on track and provide momentum.

This challenge was met. Along the way, I explored numerous means to obtain the desired drawing styles and visual effects.

The Women of the World series is a collection of drawings of women from distinct parts of the world, represented though their native garbs or customs.

I want to share with you some helpful tips to achieve pleasing results in sketch and study drawing, with a focus on women, from concept to execution. These rules are not strict, but are rather suggestions on how to improve your drawing style.

Here are two tips for this week.

RESEARCH

Research is a crucial part of any undertaking. Draw your research from many sources. Take pictures of objects to be included in your drawings. Look around and observe your surroundings since there is so much more to ordinary objects and people than meets the eye. Study people, colors, patterns, movement, and depth of field. Notice artistic details when watching movies. Clip images from magazines. Refer to the internet for some valuable information. Be curious. Curiosity is an essential part of the creative process. Researching will generate some original ideas and spark your imagination.

For my project, I wanted to know more about the women I was interested in portraying. Therefore, I explored native costumes and jewelry. I looked for architectural landmarks from their respective countries of origin. I investigated elements in facial features associated with an ethnic group.

SKETCH AND PLAN YOUR IDEAS ANYTIME, ANYWHERE

Put a quick sketch down on paper and write a few notes about the concept while you are thinking about it. Keep a notepad with you at all times. Interrupt your activity to catch an idea in the moment. It is essential to capture a good idea before it floats away.

Next week, I will share recommendations on how to create a harmonious composition using some very simple but helpful guidelines.

Stay tuned for more information and tips in my next blog post.

A bientôt!

Jacqueline