What to Draw Book: Beginner’s Guide [2024]

Hey there, aspiring artists! Getting started with drawing can feel like staring at a blank canvas of possibilities, but guess what? It doesn’t have to be intimidating. A what to draw and how to draw it book can be your trusty sidekick in this creative adventure; for example, Drawing on the Right Side of the Brain offers unique exercises. The Society of Illustrators provides resources that can inspire and guide you, irrespective of whether you’re into sketching simple objects or creating complex scenes. The Prismacolor pencils are the reliable tools that many beginners find to be helpful in producing quality artwork. Local art hubs such as community centers often host beginner drawing classes, providing a supportive environment to learn fundamental skills and practice new techniques.

Unleash Your Inner Artist: A Beginner’s Guide to the Joy of Drawing

So, you want to learn how to draw? That’s fantastic! You’re about to embark on an incredibly rewarding creative journey. Forget the myth that only "talented" people can draw. The truth is, drawing is a skill that can be learned and improved with practice, just like playing an instrument or learning a new language.

Why Drawing? The Accessible Art Form

Drawing is arguably the most accessible art form out there. All you really need to start is a pencil and a piece of paper. Think about that – instant creative potential at your fingertips!

It’s a fantastic way to express yourself, to observe the world around you with fresh eyes, and to simply unwind and de-stress. The joy of seeing your ideas come to life on paper is truly unparalleled.

Anyone Can Learn: The Power of Practice

The key takeaway here is that anyone, regardless of their perceived artistic ability, can learn to draw. It’s not about innate talent; it’s about consistent practice, a willingness to learn, and the right guidance. Don’t be discouraged by initial challenges. Every artist starts somewhere, and every line, every sketch, is a step forward.

What This Guide Offers: Your Roadmap to Drawing

This guide is designed to be your roadmap to the world of drawing. We’ll break down the fundamentals, explore essential tools, and introduce you to resources that will fuel your artistic growth.

We’ll cover the core principles like perspective, anatomy, and shading, giving you a solid foundation to build upon.

We’ll also delve into various drawing techniques that will elevate your skills and expand your artistic toolbox.

Finally, we’ll provide you with plenty of prompts and exercises to get you started and keep you practicing.

Embrace the Journey: It’s All About the Fun

Most importantly, remember to have fun! Drawing should be an enjoyable experience. Don’t put too much pressure on yourself to create perfect masterpieces right away.

Embrace the process of learning, experiment with different styles and techniques, and celebrate your progress along the way. This is your artistic journey, so make it your own!

Building Your Foundation: Mastering Art Fundamentals

So, you’re ready to draw, but where do you even start? While diving straight into drawing complex subjects can be tempting, understanding the fundamental principles of art is absolutely crucial for long-term growth and improvement. Think of it like building a house: you can’t start with the roof! You need a solid foundation first.

These fundamentals aren’t just abstract concepts; they’re the building blocks that will allow you to create more realistic, dynamic, and compelling drawings. They might seem basic at first, but mastering them will unlock your artistic potential. Let’s explore these essential elements, one by one:

Perspective: Creating Depth on a Flat Surface

Perspective is the technique of representing three-dimensional objects on a two-dimensional surface, creating the illusion of depth and space.

There are two main types of perspective you should familiarize yourself with:

Linear Perspective

Linear perspective uses vanishing points on the horizon line to converge parallel lines, making objects appear smaller as they recede into the distance.

Think of railroad tracks disappearing into the horizon – that’s linear perspective in action! Understanding one-point, two-point, and three-point perspective is key to creating believable scenes.

Atmospheric Perspective

Atmospheric perspective (also known as aerial perspective) creates depth by using changes in color, value, and detail.

Objects in the distance appear lighter, less detailed, and often bluer due to the atmosphere. This technique adds realism and enhances the sense of depth in your drawings.

Anatomy: Understanding Form and Structure

While you don’t need to be a medical expert, a basic understanding of anatomy is essential for drawing the human (or animal!) figure convincingly.

Focus on learning the underlying skeletal and muscular structure.

Start with simple shapes and forms to represent the major body parts. This will help you understand how they connect and move.

Resources like figure drawing books and online tutorials can be incredibly helpful.

Gesture Drawing: Capturing the Essence of Movement

Gesture drawing is a quick and spontaneous way to capture the essence of a pose or movement.

It’s not about perfect details; it’s about capturing the flow of energy and the overall feeling of the subject.

Use loose, flowing lines to represent the main action of the pose. Gesture drawing is a great warm-up exercise and helps you develop your observational skills.

Shading (Value): Adding Depth and Dimension

Value refers to the lightness or darkness of a color. Understanding how to use value is crucial for creating the illusion of depth and dimension in your drawings.

Practice creating a value scale, ranging from pure white to pure black, with several shades of gray in between.

Learn how light interacts with different surfaces and how to render shadows accurately. This will make your drawings look more realistic and three-dimensional.

Composition: Arranging Elements for Visual Impact

Composition refers to the arrangement of elements within your drawing.

A well-composed drawing is visually appealing and guides the viewer’s eye through the artwork.

Consider elements like the rule of thirds, leading lines, and focal points to create a balanced and engaging composition.

Experiment with different layouts and arrangements to see what works best for your subject matter.

Line Weight: Adding Emphasis and Visual Interest

Line weight refers to the thickness of your lines.

Varying line weight can add emphasis, create depth, and add visual interest to your drawings.

Use thicker lines for outlines and areas of shadow, and thinner lines for details and highlights.

Experiment with different pen and pencil types to achieve a variety of line weights.

Negative Space: Seeing What Isn’t There

Negative space refers to the empty space around and between objects. Learning to see and utilize negative space can greatly improve your drawing accuracy.

Instead of focusing solely on the objects themselves, pay attention to the shapes of the spaces around them. This can help you perceive the relationships between objects more accurately and improve your overall composition.

The Importance of Consistent Practice

Mastering these fundamentals takes time and practice. Don’t get discouraged if you don’t see results immediately.

The key is to practice regularly, even if it’s just for a few minutes each day.

Experiment with different techniques, observe the world around you, and most importantly, have fun!

Essential Tools for Budding Artists

Alright, you’re amped up to draw, you know why fundamentals are king, but now you need the right weapons for your artistic arsenal! Don’t worry, you don’t need to break the bank. Let’s break down the core tools you’ll need to start your drawing journey. You can always upgrade later, but mastering the basics is where it’s at!

The Core Four: Pencils, Erasers, Sketchbooks, and Paper

We’ll focus on the four most essential components you will need to produce any kind of art.

This doesn’t mean you can’t use different tools, mediums, or other equipment; however, without these four, you may be missing some potential artistic achievements.

Pencils: Your Versatile Graphite Companions

Pencils are the bread and butter of drawing. But not all pencils are created equal! You’ll see numbers and letters like "HB," "2B," and "4B" on them. What does it all mean?

The H stands for hardness, and the B stands for blackness. The higher the number next to the H, the harder and lighter the pencil will be. These are great for light sketches and details.

On the other hand, the higher the number next to the B, the softer and darker the pencil. These are your go-to’s for shading and creating rich, dark tones.

Choosing Your Pencil Range:

For beginners, I recommend grabbing a range from HB to 4B. This gives you versatility for sketching, outlining, and shading. An HB is a great all-purpose pencil. 2B adds a bit more darkness, and 4B really lets you lay down those shadows.

Don’t stress about getting the absolute perfect set right away. Experiment and see what feels best in your hand!

Erasers: Your Undo Button (and More!)

Mistakes are part of the process, so good erasers are essential. Two main types of erasers are must-haves: kneaded erasers and plastic erasers.

Kneaded Erasers:

These are soft, pliable erasers that you can mold into any shape. They’re fantastic for lifting graphite without damaging the paper. You can dab them on the page to lighten areas or create subtle highlights.

Plastic Erasers:

These are your standard, more abrasive erasers. They’re great for completely removing lines and cleaning up edges. Be careful not to press too hard, or you might damage the paper.

Sketchbooks: Your Portable Creative Space

Your sketchbook is your personal playground. It’s where you experiment, practice, and develop your skills. Choosing a sketchbook is a matter of personal preference.

Do you prefer a small, pocket-sized sketchbook for on-the-go drawing? Or a larger, A4 size for more detailed work?

Consider the paper weight too. Lighter paper is fine for quick sketches, while heavier paper can handle more layers and erasing. Don’t overthink it – just pick one and start filling it up!

Drawing Paper: Texture Matters

The type of paper you use can significantly impact your drawing experience. Different textures create different effects. Smooth paper is great for detailed line work, while textured paper is better for shading and creating a more expressive look.

Experiment with different paper types:

Try smooth Bristol board for clean lines, or textured drawing paper for shading. See what feels right for you and the kind of art you want to create. Don’t be afraid to experiment!

Build Your Collection Gradually

You don’t need to buy everything at once! Start with the basics and add to your collection as you progress. Focus on mastering the fundamentals with simple tools.

As you grow as an artist, you’ll discover what works best for you and can invest in more specialized supplies. The most important thing is to start drawing!

Learning from the Masters: Books and Step-by-Step Guides

Alright, you’ve got your tools, you understand the fundamentals… but where do you go from there? One of the best ways to level up your drawing skills is to learn from those who have already mastered the craft.

This means diving into books, following step-by-step guides, and absorbing the wisdom of established artists. It’s like having a personal tutor, available whenever you need them!

Why Learn from the Masters?

Think of it this way: learning from experienced artists is like standing on the shoulders of giants. You get to benefit from their years of experience, avoiding common pitfalls and accelerating your own learning.

Analyzing their techniques, studying their approaches, and understanding their thought processes can unlock a whole new level of understanding. It’s not about copying, but about understanding why they made certain choices.

Influential Authors and Their Must-Read Books

There are countless incredible art instructors and authors out there. But here are a few to get you started – true giants in the field of art education.

Betty Edwards and "Drawing on the Right Side of the Brain"

This book is a classic for a reason. Edwards’ approach focuses on perceptual skills and shifting your way of seeing.

She teaches you to bypass your analytical left brain and tap into the more intuitive right brain, allowing you to draw what you actually see, rather than what you think you see.

It’s a game-changer for many beginners.

Andrew Loomis: Timeless Instruction for Aspiring Artists

Loomis’s books, though originally published decades ago, remain incredibly relevant today. Titles like "Fun with a Pencil," "Figure Drawing: For All It’s Worth," and "Creative Illustration" are packed with practical advice and clear instruction.

His focus on constructive drawing and understanding form makes him an invaluable resource for anyone serious about learning to draw. And the best part? Many of his books are now in the public domain and available for free online!

Giovanni Civardi: Mastering the Human Form

If you’re interested in figure drawing, Civardi’s books are a must. He offers a clear, concise, and anatomical approach to drawing the human body.

His books are filled with practical exercises and detailed illustrations, making them an excellent resource for both beginners and experienced artists alike.

Lee J. Ames: The "Draw 50" Series: Making Drawing Fun and Accessible

Ames’s "Draw 50" series is a fantastic way to build your confidence and learn to draw a wide variety of subjects.

Each book provides simple, step-by-step instructions that make even complex subjects feel approachable. It’s a fun and effective way to learn the fundamentals of drawing.

Mark Kistler: Unlock the Magic of 3D

Kistler’s approach to drawing is all about making 3D art seem easy and fun. His techniques are great for all ages. He teaches the fundamentals of perspective and shading in a way that’s both engaging and effective.

The Power of Step-by-Step Guides

Step-by-step guides are incredibly helpful, especially when you’re just starting. They break down complex subjects into manageable steps, making the learning process less intimidating.

They also provide a clear path to follow, allowing you to focus on executing the techniques rather than struggling with where to begin.

Where to Find Step-by-Step Guides and Resources

There are tons of resources available for finding step-by-step drawing guides:

• Books: Libraries and bookstores are filled with drawing instruction books for all skill levels.

• Websites: Many websites offer free drawing tutorials and step-by-step guides. Search for topics like "beginner drawing tutorial" or "[subject] drawing guide."

• Online Courses: Platforms like Skillshare and Udemy often have courses that include step-by-step drawing instruction.

Techniques to Elevate Your Drawing Skills

Alright, you’ve got your tools, you understand the fundamentals… but where do you go from there? One of the best ways to level up your drawing skills is to learn from those who have already mastered the craft.

This means diving into books, following step-by-step guides, and absorbing the wisdom they offer. But it also means actively employing techniques that are tried and true, methods that help you see and translate the world onto paper in a more refined way.

Let’s explore two essential drawing techniques: contour drawing and gridding. These approaches offer different ways to engage with your subject, sharpening your observation skills and improving your accuracy.

Contour Drawing: Feeling the Form

Contour drawing is all about slowing down and truly observing the edges of your subject. It’s a technique that emphasizes line work to define shapes and forms. Forget about shading, details, or internal lines for now.

The goal is to create an outline that captures the essence of the object.

Think of it as tracing the outline of a shape without lifting your pencil.

How to Practice Contour Drawing

1. Choose a Subject: Select a simple object to start with, like a fruit, a leaf, or a household item. As you improve, you can move on to more complex subjects.

2. Focus on the Edge: Really look at the edge of the object. Let your eyes slowly trace the line, and try to match the movement of your pencil to the movement of your eye.

3. Continuous Line (Optional): For a pure contour drawing, try not to lift your pencil from the paper. This forces you to really focus on the continuous flow of the edge.

4. Don’t Erase: Embrace the imperfections! Contour drawing isn’t about creating a perfect representation, it’s about developing your observation skills.

5. Blind Contour: This is a more advanced version where you never look at your paper, only at the subject. It’s challenging, but it forces you to truly rely on your sense of touch and sight. The results are often abstract and surprising!

Benefits of Contour Drawing

• Improved observation skills.
• Enhanced hand-eye coordination.
• Greater understanding of form and shape.

Gridding: Achieving Accurate Proportions

Gridding is a technique that helps you accurately transfer an image from a reference photo or another source onto your drawing surface.

It’s particularly useful when you need to maintain precise proportions and relationships between different elements.

The Gridding Process: A Step-by-Step Guide

1. Prepare Your Reference: Print out your reference photo or image.

2. Create a Grid on Your Reference: Using a ruler and a light pencil, draw a grid of squares over your reference image. The size of the squares will depend on the size of your drawing and the level of detail required.

3. Create a Corresponding Grid on Your Drawing Surface: On your drawing paper, create a grid with the same number of squares as the grid on your reference. Ensure the proportions of the grids are the same to avoid distortion.

4. Transfer the Image Square by Square: Focus on one square at a time. Carefully observe the lines and shapes within that square on your reference image. Then, reproduce those lines and shapes in the corresponding square on your drawing surface.

5. Refine the Drawing: Once you’ve transferred the basic outlines, you can erase the grid lines and begin adding details, shading, and other elements to complete your drawing.

Gridding Tips and Considerations

• Start with a Light Touch: Use a light pencil for your grid lines so they are easy to erase later.
• Accuracy is Key: Take your time and be as precise as possible when transferring the image.
• Vary Grid Size: For complex areas, you can use a smaller grid size for greater accuracy.
• Don’t Rely on it Forever: Gridding is a tool to help you learn about proportion and composition. Gradually try to draw without it as your skills improve.

By mastering these techniques, you’ll not only elevate the quality of your drawings but also deepen your understanding of the artistic process.

Experiment with these methods, combine them, and find what works best for your individual style. The most important thing is to keep practicing and exploring!

Overcoming the Blank Page: Drawing Prompts and Practice Exercises

Alright, you’ve got your tools, you understand the fundamentals… but where do you go from there? One of the best ways to level up your drawing skills is to learn from those who have already mastered the craft.

This means diving into books, following step-by-step guides, and absorbing the wisdom they offer… But what if you are at a complete blank? Let’s look at prompts and exercises that can get you past that hurdle.

The Tyranny of the Blank Page and How to Beat It

Every artist, at some point, stares down the intimidating void of a blank page. It can be paralyzing. The pressure to create something "good" can stifle creativity before it even begins.

That’s where drawing prompts come in. Think of them as little creative jump-starts, designed to kick your imagination into gear and get your pencil moving. They offer a starting point, a suggestion, a nudge in the right direction.

Instead of facing infinite possibilities, you have a defined task, making the whole process less daunting and way more fun!

Unleashing Creativity: Examples of Drawing Prompts

Drawing prompts can be anything, from a single word to a detailed scenario. The key is to choose prompts that spark your interest and encourage you to experiment.

Here are a few examples to get you started:

• Object-Based Prompts: Draw a crumpled piece of paper, an antique key, a collection of seashells, or your favorite mug. Focus on observing the details and capturing the textures.

• Abstract Prompts: Draw the feeling of "joy," "peace," or "anxiety." This forces you to think outside the box and explore visual metaphors.

• Character Prompts: Draw a superhero with a mundane job, a grumpy fairy, or a talking animal on an adventure. Let your imagination run wild with storytelling.

• Location Prompts: Draw a bustling city street, a serene forest clearing, or an abandoned building. Pay attention to perspective and atmosphere.

• Combination Prompts: Combine two unrelated objects or concepts into a single drawing. This can lead to surprising and unique creations. (Example: A teacup and a cactus).

The possibilities are truly endless. Don’t be afraid to modify prompts to suit your own interests and skill level. The goal is to have fun and keep drawing!

Essential Practice Exercises: Building a Solid Foundation

Drawing prompts are great for sparking creativity, but targeted practice exercises are essential for developing specific skills. Think of them as your artistic workout routine.

Here are a few simple exercises you can incorporate into your daily practice:

Line Control Exercises

• Straight Lines: Fill a page with perfectly straight lines, both horizontal and vertical. Focus on consistency and accuracy.
• Curved Lines: Practice drawing smooth, flowing curves of varying thickness. Experiment with different levels of pressure.
• Circles and Ellipses: Fill pages with circles and ellipses, trying to make them as round and symmetrical as possible. This takes practice!

Shape and Form Exercises

• Basic Shapes: Draw cubes, spheres, cylinders, and cones from different angles. Focus on understanding perspective and volume.
• Combining Shapes: Combine basic shapes to create more complex forms. This is a building block for drawing anything.

Shading Exercises

• Value Scales: Create a gradient of values from pure white to pure black using different shading techniques (hatching, cross-hatching, blending). Understanding value is key to creating depth.
• Shading Simple Objects: Practice shading simple objects like apples or eggs, paying attention to light and shadow. Observe how light interacts with different surfaces.

The Power of Repetition: Why Regular Practice Matters

There’s no magic bullet when it comes to drawing. Consistent practice is the single most important factor in improving your skills.

Even just 15-30 minutes of practice each day can make a huge difference over time. Treat it like a habit, like brushing your teeth, and you’ll be amazed at how quickly you progress.

Don’t get discouraged if you don’t see results immediately. Drawing is a journey, not a destination.

Embrace the process, celebrate your progress, and most importantly, have fun! Each sketch, each line, each attempt brings you closer to realizing your artistic potential.

Finding Your Artistic Tribe: Platforms for Learning and Inspiration

Alright, you’ve got your tools, you understand the fundamentals… but where do you go from there? One of the best ways to level up your drawing skills is to learn from those who have already mastered the craft.

This means diving into books, following step-by-step guides, and absorbing all the artistic wisdom you can. But beyond individual study, connecting with a community of fellow artists and finding sources of inspiration is equally vital. Luckily, the digital age has made it easier than ever to do just that. Let’s explore some platforms that can help you on your artistic journey.

Unleash Your Inner Artist With Online Art Courses

Structured online courses can provide a comprehensive learning experience. Think of them as your virtual art school, offering everything from beginner-friendly introductions to advanced techniques.

The key here is structure. While free resources are abundant, a well-designed course gives you a guided path to follow, complete with assignments and feedback.

Platform Spotlight: A Quick Look

Here are a few platforms worth considering:

• Skillshare: Known for its diverse range of creative classes, Skillshare offers subscription-based access to thousands of courses, including drawing, painting, and illustration. It’s a great option for exploring different styles and finding instructors you connect with.

• Udemy: Udemy’s marketplace features a vast selection of art courses at various price points. You can often find courses on sale, making it an affordable option. Be sure to read reviews carefully before enrolling to ensure the course meets your needs.

• Domestika: Domestika stands out with its beautifully produced courses taught by leading artists. While often pricier than Udemy, Domestika courses are known for their high production quality and focus on practical skills.

• Coursera: Partnering with universities and institutions, Coursera offers more academic art courses. If you’re looking for a more theoretical or research-based approach, Coursera might be a good fit.

The Power of YouTube: Free Drawing Tutorials Galore

Don’t underestimate the power of YouTube! It’s a treasure trove of free drawing tutorials covering virtually every topic imaginable.

From basic sketching to advanced rendering techniques, you can find countless videos to guide you.

The best part? It’s completely free!

Navigating the YouTube Art Scene

However, with so much content available, it can be challenging to find reliable and high-quality tutorials. Here are a few tips for navigating the YouTube art scene:

• Search Strategically: Be specific with your search terms. Instead of simply searching "drawing tutorial," try "how to draw realistic portraits" or "beginner pencil shading techniques."

• Look for Reputable Channels: Seek out channels with a consistent track record of producing helpful and informative videos. Pay attention to viewer comments and ratings.

• Don’t Be Afraid to Experiment: Try different instructors and styles until you find ones that resonate with you.

Finding Inspiration Beyond Tutorials

Learning isn’t just about mastering techniques; it’s also about finding inspiration. Here are a few ideas:

• Online Art Communities: Platforms like DeviantArt, ArtStation, and Instagram provide spaces to share your work, connect with other artists, and discover new styles and techniques.

• Museums and Galleries (Virtual and Real): Immerse yourself in the work of master artists, both past and present. Many museums offer virtual tours, allowing you to explore art from the comfort of your home.

• Art Blogs and Websites: Follow art blogs and websites to stay up-to-date on industry news, artist interviews, and inspirational artwork.

Ultimately, finding your artistic tribe is about creating a supportive and inspiring environment where you can learn, grow, and connect with fellow artists. Explore these platforms, experiment with different resources, and discover what works best for you. The most important thing is to keep drawing and never stop learning!

Equipping Your Studio: Art Supply Stores and Resources

Alright, you’ve found your inspiration and maybe even taken some online courses. Now it’s time to think about where you’re actually going to get all the stuff you need to make art! Finding the right art supplies is critical. But navigating the myriad of options can be intimidating, especially when you are first starting out.

This section will help you understand where to source quality art supplies, highlighting established retailers and encouraging you to support your local art communities.

Major Players: National Art Supply Chains

Let’s start with the big names. These stores offer vast selections, often at competitive prices, and are generally accessible across the country.

• Dick Blick Art Materials: Blick is a staple for artists of all levels. They have a massive online presence and a good number of physical stores. You’ll find everything from student-grade materials to professional-quality paints and papers. Blick’s website is excellent for research, too.

• Michael’s: More of a general craft store, but Michael’s has a surprisingly decent art supply section, especially for beginners. They frequently have sales and coupons, making it an affordable option.

  • Pro-Tip: Always check their website or app for coupons before you shop!

• Jerry’s Artarama: Jerry’s is another great online and brick-and-mortar option. They often have deep discounts and carry a wide range of brands. They’re worth checking out for bulk purchases or when you’re looking to try something new.

The Charm of Local Art Supply Stores

While the big chains offer convenience and variety, don’t underestimate the value of your local art supply store. These smaller businesses often provide:

• Expert Advice: The staff at local stores are usually artists themselves. They can offer personalized recommendations and help you find the perfect materials for your specific needs.

• Unique Products: Local stores may carry independent brands or specialty items that you won’t find anywhere else.

• Community Support: By shopping at a local art supply store, you’re directly supporting your community and helping to foster a thriving art scene.

Finding Your Local Gems

How do you find these hidden treasures?

• Google Maps: A simple search for "art supply store near me" can yield excellent results.

• Online Artist Communities: Ask for recommendations in online art forums or social media groups.

• Art Schools and Universities: Check if local art schools or universities have on-campus stores that are open to the public.

Beyond the Storefront: Online Marketplaces

Don’t forget the online world! Sites like Etsy and specialized online art supply retailers offer unique and handmade materials that you won’t find in traditional stores.

Getting Started: Easy Drawing Exercises for Beginners

Alright, you’ve found your art supplies, learned the fundamentals, and maybe even taken some online courses. Now it’s time to put pencil to paper! Don’t feel pressured to create masterpieces right away. The key is to start simple, build your confidence, and most importantly, have fun.

This section is all about easy drawing exercises that will gently introduce you to the world of art.

Why Start Simple?

Many beginners make the mistake of jumping into complex subjects too quickly. This can lead to frustration and discouragement. Instead, focus on mastering the basics first. Think of it like learning a musical instrument: you wouldn’t start with a concerto, would you? You’d begin with simple scales and chords.

Drawing is the same!

Focusing on Basic Shapes: Your Artistic Building Blocks

The world around us, no matter how complex, can be broken down into basic shapes. Circles, squares, triangles, and cylinders are your artistic building blocks.

Learning to see and draw these shapes accurately is the foundation for everything else.

Exercise 1: The Shape Hunt

Go on a shape hunt around your room. Identify objects that are predominantly circles (a plate, a clock), squares (a book, a picture frame), or cylinders (a mug, a candle). Now, try sketching these objects, focusing only on the underlying shapes. Don’t worry about details!

This will train your eye to see the world in a new way.

Exercise 2: Shape Combinations

Draw a series of simple shapes on a page: a circle, a square, a triangle. Now, try combining these shapes to create abstract designs. Overlap them, rotate them, and experiment with different arrangements.

This exercise will help you develop your composition skills.

Exercise 3: Transforming Shapes

Take a simple shape, like a circle, and try to transform it into something recognizable. Add details to turn it into an apple, a balloon, or even a simple face.

This is a fun way to practice your creativity and observation skills.

Breaking Down Complex Subjects

Once you’re comfortable with basic shapes, you can start tackling more complex subjects. The trick is to break them down into manageable parts.

A Practical Example: Drawing a Simple House

Let’s say you want to draw a house. Instead of trying to draw the entire house at once, start with the basic rectangular shape of the main structure. Then, add a triangular roof. Next, add square or rectangular windows and a door.

Finally, add details like the chimney, landscaping, and any other features.

By breaking the house down into smaller, simpler shapes, you can create a convincing drawing without feeling overwhelmed.

General Application

This principle applies to drawing anything, from animals to landscapes to portraits. Always look for the underlying shapes first. Then, build upon those shapes with details and shading.

Don’t Strive for Perfection, Just Start

The most important thing to remember is that practice makes progress. Don’t be discouraged if your early drawings aren’t perfect. Just keep practicing, keep experimenting, and keep having fun.

The more you draw, the better you’ll become.

Embrace the Journey: Don’t Be Afraid to Experiment and Grow

Alright, you’ve found your art supplies, learned the fundamentals, and maybe even taken some online courses. Now it’s time to put pencil to paper! Don’t feel pressured to create masterpieces right away. The key is to start simple, build your confidence, and most importantly, have fun.

This section is all about embracing the artistic journey and developing a growth mindset. It’s about understanding that becoming a skilled artist is a process, not a destination, and that mistakes are valuable learning opportunities.

The Power of Imperfection

Let’s face it: nobody starts out perfect. Every artist, from Da Vinci to Van Gogh, began somewhere, and they all made countless "mistakes" along the way. These so-called mistakes are crucial for growth. They highlight areas for improvement and help you discover new techniques and approaches.

Think of each drawing as an experiment. What happens if you use a different type of pencil? What if you try a new shading technique?

Don’t be afraid to deviate from the instructions or try something completely different.

It might not always work out, but you’ll learn something valuable every time.

Cultivating a Growth Mindset

A growth mindset is the belief that your abilities can be developed through dedication and hard work. This is essential for any artist.

Instead of thinking, "I’m just not good at drawing," try thinking, "I can improve my drawing skills with practice and effort."

This simple shift in perspective can make a world of difference.

View challenges as opportunities to learn and grow. Welcome feedback and use it to refine your skills.

Celebrating Small Victories

It’s easy to get discouraged when you’re not seeing the results you want. That’s why it’s so important to celebrate even the smallest victories.

Did you manage to draw a perfect circle? Did you finally master a difficult shading technique?

Take a moment to appreciate your progress, no matter how small it may seem.

These small wins will keep you motivated and inspired to keep learning.

The Joy of the Process

Ultimately, drawing should be enjoyable. If you’re not having fun, you’re less likely to stick with it.

Don’t get bogged down in perfectionism or comparisons to other artists.

Focus on the process of creating and the satisfaction of bringing your ideas to life.

Experiment, play, and let your creativity flow.

Remember, the most important thing is to enjoy the journey. The more you enjoy it, the more you will want to continue drawing. So, grab your pencils and start creating!

So, grab a "what to draw and how to draw it" book – there are some awesome beginner’s guides out there for 2024 – a pencil, and some paper. Don’t worry about perfection, just start sketching! Who knows, you might surprise yourself with what you can create. Happy drawing!