Using graphite or charcoal, draw an interior FROM DIRECT OBSERVATION from a low or high vantage point (i.e. a "dramatic" angle), with a full range of tonal value and strong contrast.
Provide a printout of a digital photograph you take from the viewpoint you were drawing, for comparison during critique. DO NOT draw based on the photograph, but from real life.
Objectives:
Organize a space into a strong, dramatic composition
Create a convincing sense of depth
Distinguish foreground, middle-ground, and background via linear perspective
Describe the nature of light and shadow
Improve ability to work from "the big picture" into smaller details
Materials:
Graphite or charcoal
Pink eraser
Pencil sharpener
Drawing paper or charcoal paper - sketchbook size (11 x 14", 60 lb. paper) or larger
Parameters
The interior must be from direct observation (from REAL LIFE, not a photograph)
The interior you reference must have "deep space".
The interior must be viewed from a very low or very high vantage point.
Use the entire picture plane.
Make this a "portfolio-worthy" drawing.
Grading Criteria:
Composition
Range of tonal value; contrast
Convincing sense of space (through linear and atmospheric/aerial perspective)
Realism of light and shadow
Craftsmanship
To Start:
- Start with a light line to block in the composition
- Establish the horizon line (although it might be hidden) and the vanishing points
- Identify the light source, and keep it in mind as you draw.
Tip
Go to a place like the mall or a public library for a really dramatic space.
Self Critique Questions
As you draw, ask yourself if you are doing the following (You should be!):
- Fill the page.
- Consider the entire page as a composition.
- Get the lines right -- Use the vanishing points for all parallel horizontal lines
- Get the tonal values right - Are the shadows and highlights as dark or light as they are in reality?
Masters Gallery
Look at the work of Charles Sheeler, a 20th Century American Realist and Precisionist
Images were found at the following sites:
www.tendreams.org/sheeler.htm
www.flickr.com/photos/americanartmuseum/3663231518/