This is the second in a four part series (to appear monthly) focusing on artistic techniques. The focus will be on which artists that used the technique and resources can be checked out from the Port Jefferson Free Library to help anyone reach their artistic potential!
Drawing is one of the most basic and oldest art forms. Some of the oldest works of art are drawings that have been found on the walls of caves that sheltered prehistoric humans (Lascaux). As soon as children can learn to hold a crayon they start drawing. Who hasn’t been seated in a boring class or a meeting with pen in hand and just started doodling? Drawing can be done with nearly anything that deposits pigment. It is one of the most universal art forms.
In Undressed Art: Why We Draw http://alpha2.suffolk.lib.ny.us/record=b3550783~S50 naturalist and artist Peter Steinhart examines drawing. Figure drawing has seen a decline in an art world that places great value on technology and abstraction. However, drawing is not dead, in fact those who draw keep coming back week after to week to refine their skills. Steinhart examines drawing as a whole practise. An intriguing read!
Some of the greatest artists ever known have made drawing an integral part of their compositional process. Rembrandt van Rijn, renowned artist was well known for his many drawings. His drawings were done in part to explore the compositional possibilities of his paintings. Others look as if Rembrandt was simply having some artistic fun depicting the many faces of individuals he saw out and about. Seymour Slive’s Rembrandt Drawings http://alpha2.suffolk.lib.ny.us/record=b4210397~S50 has many of the artist’s works which are organized by subject.
Take a look at a master at work! He was one of the greatest artistic minds, a true Renaissance man, he was Leonardo da Vinci. Leonardo was known not only for his artistic achievements (the Mona Lisa, The Last Supper, but he also created more than 13,000 pages of drawings and sketches of everything from plans for the first helicopter, to anatomy studies All of his drawings have been reproduced in this two volume set: The Notebooks of Leonardo da Vinci http://alpha2.suffolk.lib.ny.us/record=b1129909~S50
The Library has many resources to help get those creative muscles moving. Give some of these books a try!
Beginners
Drawing for the Absolute and Utter Beginner by Claire Watson Garcia http://alpha2.suffolk.lib.ny.us/record=b3541617~S50 The title is a very accurate summation of this book. Lots of topics, techniques, and troubleshooting are covered. The book also provides exercises so artists can practise their skills and then work on refining them. A good place to start!
Drawing Made Easy by David Sanmiguel http://alpha2.suffolk.lib.ny.us/record=b3256827~S50 As author Sanmiguel states you need three things “in order to draw: a pencil, paper, and the desire”. While it sounds simple there are some variations in terms of pencils, and papers and he succinctly explores the options. He also focuses on creating a workspace in which to create. Basic compositional techniques are explored. This book is perhaps best used by someone with an artistic background who is looking to expand and enhance their skills.
For those who already have some drawing experience but are looking for some inspiration try : Drawing Lessons from the Great Masters http://alpha2.suffolk.lib.ny.us/record=b1156269~S50 . Author Robert Beverly Hale takes 100 drawings by some of the greatest artists including Leonardo da Vinci, Michelangelo, Rembrandt, Rubens, Goya, and more. Each work is reproduced in its entirety on a full page while the corresponding page explains how the artist created the intended appearance of the work.
For those who are looking for a more specialized approach to drawing the human body check out Figure It Out: The Beginner’s Guide to Drawing People http://alpha2.suffolk.lib.ny.us/record=b4222695~S50 offers a really well done solid breakdown on how to draw the human figure. Each project is broken down into its basic components and then readers get to create their own works. Similar books have been created for children, but this is written for the adult learner.
As always if you need any assistance with your selections please stop by the Reference desk and the librarian will be happy to help you.
