5/31/2016

Drawing Human Figures In Pencil

By Helen Baker


When it comes to drawing and sketching, there are several different mediums which can be used. One of which is drawing human figures in pencil. Whether sketching an acquaintance, colleague, friend or art model, it is important to pay attention to detail. Whether attending class, posing as an art model, or simply sketching for fun, drawing is one area of study which many people find challenging and enjoyable.

When it comes to drawing and sketching, terms used can vary widely. Most often when drawing from a live art model, the correct term is life drawing. Whereas, those drawing from figurines, photographs, skeletons and other items are considered to be figure drawing. In the latter, the form can include different colors, tones, shapes, sizes and postures all created with different mediums.

For most artists, figure drawing is often the most difficult of artist undertakings. In fact, entire courses are now dedicated to the subject at colleges, universities and museums worldwide. Most likely, due to the flexibility and enduring themes associated with this type work.

There are many different approaches an artist can take when working with the human form. Whether working from skeletons, photographs or live models, the artist also has a choice of different mediums from pen and ink to pencil and crayon. Photography is often accepted as a viable option though many dismiss using this aspect due to the lack of artistic and editing capabilities.

As with other areas of the art world, light and dark play an integral role in some aspects. Using light and dark when participating in life drawing can have majestic effects when used against body surfaces. Many artist also use this process to create various shadows in and among various artwork. One of the most popular areas of the art world in which this technique is used is in photography.

While some artists prefer to work with crayons, charcoal or black, white and colored ink, many artists prefer to use a graphite pencil. Being that graphite is most commonly used in figure drawing, pencils are often sold in various formulations of intensity. These formulations range from very soft to very hard with medium soft and medium hard formations also available. Like charcoal, pencil drawings can be manipulated and erased.

A number of well known artists of past and present begin with a pencil drawing then override the pencil sketch with ink. One of the most prominent of these artists is that of Picasso. In many different works, especially when it comes to cubism, Pablo used this technique as an outline before finishing the piece.

As artists have been drawing the human figure since prehistoric time, it has remained a viable and popular art form for centuries. However, it has only been since the late 19th century that women were admitted into figure and life drawing classes. In fact, a number of historical documents show that nude models for aspiring female artists were largely unavailable at the time. As such, women have come along way in the art world as well as the world at large.




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