Drawing Basics

Drawing is one of the most natural skills imaginable - everyone can draw and everyone can improve these skills. "Objective drawing" - drawing that is intended to represent what is seen - is the foundation of all art and is based on close observation and interpretation of the world around us. This book explains basic principles and recommends simple but effective exercises to improve the reader's ability to record what is seen. Topics covered include: advice on improving skills; tools for drawing; choosing papers and sketchbooks; light and tone; exploring the potential of pencils; the importance of negative shapes; basic proportions; drawing the human figure; tackling landscape painting; gridding up; and understanding linear perspective.