Drawing I: Basic Techniques and Fundamentals 

Instructor: Craig Berry
Wednesdays 5:30-8:30pm 
10 weeks: January 12 to March 16
Location: Online
$375 (supplies not included)
Prerequisite: None

This class is great for the absolute beginner and those with drawing experience wanting to improve their skills. In this class we will learn the language of drawing through line, shape, value and edges. Through a series of lectures, mini-assignments and a survey of contemporary artists, students will learn the importance of drawing in support of learning to see, formulating ideas and sketches for painting and/or or using dry drawing media for a finished body of work. Each week will feature a lecture with a mini-assignment followed by a digital ‘draw over’ on the students work to aid in visual learning.

Syllabus

  • What is drawing? Survey of artists and styles. Materials discussed.
  • Drawing strategies: Measuring and proportion tools. Learning to see.
  • Drawing strategies: Linear and shape.
  • Drawing form: Drawing from the ‘flat’ to drawing in the ‘round’.
  • Understanding perspective: 1, 2, and 3 point perspective. Ellipses and Curves.
  • Value: Understanding tonal drawing techniques.
  • Edges: Using edges to add variety to your drawing.
  • Working from reference: Preparing photos for reference or lighting strategies when working from life.
  • Student project: Finding your muse.
  • Student critiques.

Supplies

  • Sketchbook (for drawing and taking notes)
  • Graphite pencils – HB & 2B (one of each)
  • Kneaded eraser
  • White eraser
  • 1 pad of 18" x 24” cartridge or bond paper
  • Knitting needle (as thin as you can get)
  • Strathmore 400 series drawing paper (If you can’t get this don’t worry, Craig will discuss papers in the first class and that will help you choose something different to use.)

You don’t need the following if you have a pencil sharpener. Craig will explain the use of the utility knife and sandpaper at the first class.

  • Utility knife (like this one)
  • Sandpaper (220 grit)