Friday, May 20, 2016

Graphite Drawing Of Human Figures In Pencil

By Helen Baker


When it comes to drawing and sketching, there are several different mediums which can be used. One of which is drawing human figures in pencil. Whether sketching an acquaintance, colleague, friend or art model, it is important to pay attention to detail. Whether attending class, posing as an art model, or simply sketching for fun, drawing is one area of study which many people find challenging and enjoyable.

The proper term for sketching from a figurine or object is considered figure drawing. Whereas, when working from a live model, the preferred term is often that of life drawing. While drawing or sketching from a model or object is often difficult, life drawing can be a great experience for live models and artists.

For most artists, figure drawing is often the most difficult of artist undertakings. In fact, entire courses are now dedicated to the subject at colleges, universities and museums worldwide. Most likely, due to the flexibility and enduring themes associated with this type work.

As with all art, the outcome need be unique. As such, there are a number of different approaches an artist can take. For example, while some prefer working from photographs of individuals, others prefer to sketch the person live in a studio. Whereas, others may draw solely from memory and inspiration.

While light, dark and shadow play an important role in photography, the same goes for life and figure drawing. Artists often use light and shadow against the surface and curves of the body when sketching a live model. Whereas, others use light and shadow to create shapes and other figures within a primary drawing.

While some artists prefer to work with crayons, charcoal or black, white and colored ink, many artists prefer to use a graphite pencil. Being that graphite is most commonly used in figure drawing, pencils are often sold in various formulations of intensity. These formulations range from very soft to very hard with medium soft and medium hard formations also available. Like charcoal, pencil drawings can be manipulated and erased.

Some artists prefer to draw in pencil then retrace with ink. While this is a valid artistic process, it does eliminate the ability to correct mistakes. Whereas, many 17th and 18th century artists liked to start with a colored tone then add shade in black while portraying any highlights in white using either crayon or ink. Whereas, others would be found using more vibrant colors when it came to artists like Matisse, Monet and others.

While not well known, it was not until the 19th century that women were admitted into life and figure drawing classes. Although, when touring a museum, it is fairly easy to notice the disproportionate amount of female to male artists of the period. Perhaps one reason Georgia O'Keefe and others have now become some of the most popular artists and photographers of the 20th century.




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