Simply Drawing.

Onesimus

Bought this book accompanied by DVD the other day entitled ''simply drawing''. I drew when I was a kid. But nothing to the caliber of what people draw today. Simple things like bottles and objects.

Do you think it is a good idea to just go on the DVD and Book as a beginner? or should I branch out and take some live classes somewhere within the regional area?

What advice would artists here on boards.ie have for me as a beginner?

Thanks

Onesimus

Tiriel

Just pick up a pencil or whatever you'd like to use and go for it! There is no right or wrong - get into it and enjoy. DVD's and books are great for instruction - but don't be afraid to just use your eye and look - join a group, go to life drawing classes, but most of all don't be afraid to give it a go and get stuck in! Good luck!

Onesimus

Well so far I have been using the method of drawing the shape that suits the object such as a square or cone for a chess piece. But have not got around to using the grid method yet.

What objects for a beginner would you suggest I begin sketching? perhaps something with little detail but plenty of shape and chance to play with shading and light etc?

megaten

Set up a still life of simple objects such as cardboard boxes and spheres. Just don't use any with reflective surfaces. you'll just make things harder for yourself that way.

Onesimus

megaten wrote: »

Set up a still life of simple objects such as cardboard boxes and spheres. Just don't use any with reflective surfaces. you'll just make things harder for yourself that way.

Thanks megaten. It can be quite difficult as a beginner doing objects with plenty of lighting on them at first. I think the most difficult part of sketching for me as a beginner exists in shading.

Onesimus

neelyohara

Shading is the biggie. If you can master shading it brings the most basic drawings to a new level.

I've heard good things about 'Drawing on the Right Side of the Brain'. I've bought a copy but have yet to start... but some of the examples of work that people have produced using the method is amazing.

There are very few people who have a natural ability to pick up a pencil and draw from real life... I know my brother is one of them. The guy just picks up a pencil and makes lines and squiggles come to life, and the annoying thing is he doesn't draw anymore. On the other hand I've spent my life trying to be as good as he is!

In saying that anyone who is good at drawing will tell you that practice is the key. Every day. You won't always produce something good but the practice is something you build on.

You should definitely take a look at the book above. You can pick it up from most bookshops or ebay/amazon. Click here and go straight to the gallery to see what I mean about people who have used the method. I've also spoken to people IRL who have found the book to be helpful and were more than surprised with their results. Here's hoping!

Schapiro

Megaten is spot on. Simple, non-reflective things. Spheres and cubes are a good way to start with shading. Don't worry about detail, just worry about light and dark when first doing shading. And don't get frustrated if they don't look perfect, you've just got to keep at it. Once you're confident in it start doing more complex shapes, or doing point perspectives, with a horizon line and vanishing point, 1 point, 2 point, so-on.

This might help with the perspectives:
http://www.cartage.org.lb/en/themes/arts/drawings/perspectivedrawing/twopointpersp/twopointpersp.htm