- Select 10-12 simple objects like glassware, tools, clothing, containers, food, sports gear,etc. Arrange a table setup placing items in, on or draped over boxes or each other. Glass objects have great shadows and reflections, cloth can be folded and bunched up, food can be cut, peeled and sliced. First use pencils, ball point pens and crayons. Later, expand to other media. Here are some good simple rules:
- Have materials ready: paper, 8 1/2 X 11 typing, 9 x 12 drawing or newsprint papers. Use peeled crayons and broken 1" pieces so they can be used on sides for "mass" shadowing as well as the tip for fine lines. Use ball point pens very lightly and then with more pressure for contrast in other layers. Use different colored pens too!
- Select each object for several small practices of 20-30 seconds, gauging time by complexity of object. Try larger sizes for 1 minutes studies.
- Sketch quickly moving the drawing tool in all directions; stay focused on the object checking your paper quickly without head movement. Sketch each one several times.
Later, group 2 or 3 items interestingly together. Right side up does not always have to be the norm.
- Change to different media after you have practiced many times. Use the tips and sides of pastels, dry and wet. Watercolor and drawing papers are for finished work. Pen and ink needs a smooth paper for practice, like typing paper, and a drawing paper that will not "fuzz" with an ink pen. Drawing with markers is fine and requires wide to narrow movements just like pen and ink to achieve different values. Then experiment with mixed media for exciting and new effects. Always be open to the unexpected which can suggest new interpretations for you.
- Date your practices to see your progress. With concentrated efforts and POSITIVE THINKING you'll surprise yourself.
- Last, but not least: ENJOY YOURSELF and be proud of all you do. (Note: the little train is from gifsnow.com ). Hope the little guy will get you movin' on the right track.
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