Observational Drawing

Observational Drawing - What is it?

It can be defined as "drawing from life".

For many students, drawing is the core method of researching, investigating, developing and communicating ideas. While it is accepted that there are many wondrous types of drawings - and that non-representational drawing methods have an important role in student art projects – it is usually advantageous to demonstrate competent, realistic observational drawing skills.

- See more at: http://www.studentartguide.com/articles/realistic-observational-drawings#sthash.mPxoMWIi.dpuf

Tips to better Observational Drawings:

#1: Look at what you are drawing!

#2: Draw from real objects whenever possible.

#3: Don't trace.

#4: Understand perspective.

#5: Use grides, guidelines or rough forms to get the proportions right before you start to add the details.

#6: Be wary of ellipses.

#7: Keep the outlines light.

#8: Have a good range of tone.

#9: Use mark-making to convey surface quality and texture.

#10: Include/omit detail as necessary.