etchasketch

Here's a progress update on one of many drawings I am working on. I am starting to think I have focus issues


(2B and 8B graphite, Faber Castle typewriter eraser, and tissue for blending on A3 Strathmore Bristol smooth paper.)

This isn't SG related; but I have a few in the works. Here's a rough sketch of one of them...


kinanika

I was surprised to see that her set wasn't picked up yet. Everyone go spam her newest set with likes.

Also, just started this one. What can I say; I am a sucker for laugh lines.


A few people have asked about my process. It's pretty simple; I don't have any cool tricks.

STEP ONE: I sketch in an outline of the details (as shown above). I usually end up erasing 80% of the lines I put down until I get the proportions right. I'm a little OCD at this point, and that's probably why some people have accused me of tracing. I've seen other artists and art teachers recommend using the grid technique, but I think that just cripples potential. The best advice I can give is..

Separate yourself from the subject. For example: If you are drawing an eye, forget it's an eye. Just focus on the shapes, curves, ect. Most people have this weird subconscious impression of what an eye should look like and that translates when they put the pencil on paper. I know this sounds like cheesy matrix "there is no eye" BS, but it works. I've had some surprisingly good success giving drawing lessons.

STEP TWO: Layer like mad. If you are going for realism, there are no hard outlines in real life. Don't be afraid of going too dark. Even the whites of eyes aren't truly white. When I work on an area I cover it completely in a light layer of graphite and then blend it with a tissue or soft rag. Then I go over it again and again darkening and erasing where needed. Use a kneaded eraser and/or an eraser pencil often. They are as important in a drawing as the graphite. The more layers, the more realistic your drawing. This step takes a lot of patience, and that's probably why I rarely get more than a few hours in.

STEP THREE: I have no idea, I never make it that far. hah. I don't even know the best ways to coat a drawing to prevent smearing or oxidation. I don't think I've actually finished one fince high school. Does aqua-net still work?