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Drawing In Black and White
November 21, 2008
Hi

When I'm drawing, I often think that I'm living in a lovely world of black and white.

When I want to copy a colored picture, I squint my eyes to see the lights, darks and shade. I can even convert the image to grayscale in my image software, if I want to.

Does this procedure help me with my analysis on life? I don't know for sure, but I think it has some positive influence.

I have a friend who loves the way I simplify things and she thinks I come out with some wise advice. (Her words, not mine!) I didn't realize I was doing this, until she pointed it out.

My life has certainly changed since I started drawing and that's a fact. I mean that in a good way.

How about you? Have you noticed any positive changes in your outlook? Practicing art is supposed to do that to you, you know.

Drawing adds value and meaning to your life. If you have a pen or pencil in your hand, please don't forget to draw something. It doesn't matter if you're busy writing, just doodle in a side column or in your handy sketchbook. It will make a difference, in the end.



Tip of the Month

Are your drawings too pale? Do you have trouble with shading and getting objects to look darker? Just take a look at the grade of pencil you are using. It could be that your pencil is too hard.

The best pencils to use when you are learning to draw, are the B, 2B and the 4B. These pencils are soft and capable of producing light through to dark effects. A HB or H pencil would be alright to use for light shading.

If you are using a B grade pencil and your drawings still look as though you are making tentative marks instead of bold, strong marks, then you need to go to a heavier B pencil. You may have a natural light touch and you struggle with making firm lines. This is a good solution for that type of problem. So, if your current pencil is 2B, you need to experiment with a 4B or higher.

Another reason why your drawings are too pale might be the type of paper you are using.

Photocopy paper is terrific paper for learners. Put a piece of cardboard under it for cushioning and support. I use a hard clipboard to secure my paper and cardboard together.



Thank you,, for taking the time out of your busy schedule to read this issue.

You can simply reply to this email if you have any news that you'd like to share with me.

Until next month!

Kerry.
www.AllAboutDrawings.com

"You can do it if you believe you can." - Napoleon Hill

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