A Beginner’s guide to realistic figure drawings: Drawing and Shading the Human Figure

Class Description:

Welcome to figure drawing for beginner’s ~ Your first steps towards mastery

In this class we’ll learn how to better draw a realistic human figure by breaking down the drawing process into simple steps and training our eyes to see like an artist. This class is primarily for the amateur, and no prior skills are required, but of course artists of all skill levels are welcome!

The areas that will be covered include:

• Methods for finding proportions. i.e., freehand, grid, tracing.
• Structure and planes of the human body
• Understanding light and shadow shapes
• Shading techniques for creating 3-dimensional form
• The hierarchy of values, edges, and line.
• The Do’s and Dont's of realistic figure drawing.

What you will Learn:

At the end of this class, you will have acquired a better understanding of the foundation of good figure drawing and the techniques necessary to create a convincing impression of your subject. By analyzing the parts individually, you’ll be equipped with the knowledge to create the illusion of three dimensions on a flat surface. In the end, your mastery of the fundamentals of values, edges, form, and line will reach new heights and your ability to express yourself right along with it. Thank you for watching and best of luck!

Recommended materials:

• Graphite pencils: Faber castell 9000 series
• Paper: Strathmore Bristol smooth 300 series
• Eraser: Tombow mono zero eraser, kneaded eraser, regular rubber eraser
• Sharpener/ X-acto knife & Sharpening bloc
• Blending stumps
• bristle brushes

These materials are just a general guide, use the best materials you can afford.