Figure Drawing Class

[serenada_art]

So, this is unlike anything I've ever done before. I took a drawing class in university, but that was 20 years ago, and it was pretty much art-for-non-artists. I got lots of practice, but I don't recall actually being taught anything. Still, best homework ever

Comments

[cassiopeia7]

Why am I not magically perfect?

May I be honest? That sentence right there is going to trip you up forever. Nobody is "magically perfect" -- even Michelangelo had to start somewhere. :) For art, the only way to learn is to do. And do, and do, and DO. And then do some more. Alas, there is no magic pathway to perfection.

Just a thought -- if pencil's not working for you, what about trying a different medium? Personally, I really liked your color works from "Winchesters in Black" -- "Dogstiel" in particular. :D

But really, just keep drawing.

(edited for massive HTML-fail.)

[serenada_art]

I'm a big (huge) bundle of hyperbole, but basically I have a hard time internalising what I read. I need someone looking over my shoulder going "No, that's entirely not the point. See how *this* relates to what you're trying?" So I have shelves of art instruction books, and tons of sketchbooks, but never the twain shall meet. And, as noted, it's been 20 years between classes, so I have been stumbling around blindly in the meanwhile. I can improve with practice, but for some reason I don't seem to make quantum leaps on my own

[cassiopeia7]

I need someone looking over my shoulder going "No, that's entirely not the point. See how *this* relates to what you're trying?"

As far as constructive feedback goes, you really should get yourself an art beta. Having a fresh pair of eyes looking at your drawings, to see things that you've missed, to offer suggestions, to tell you that something's not working and why? Getting a beta was the best decision I ever made.

you should see the stuff I've thrown away, and no one should hear the swearing that happens.

LOL, you should be a fly on the wall when I'm drawing. ;) When things aren't going right, you'll see shredded drawings, thrown pencils, flung markers . . . underscored by a soundtrack of language that'll make sailors blush. I've begun to consider those hissy fits part of the creative process. XD

So, for now, baby steps.

Best way to start. :)

[amy37]

What about starting with colored pencils? Not an artist, so my logic might not apply, but since you *are* familiar and comfortable with pencils, maybe that would be the first way to add some color.