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Keys to Drawing


Synopsis


Anyone who can hold a pencil can learn to draw.

In this book, Bert Dodson shares his complete drawing system-fifty-five "keys" that you can use to render any subject with confidence, even if you're a beginner.

These keys, along with dozens of practice exercises, will help you draw like an artist in no time.

You'll learn how to:

  • Restore, focus, map, and intensify
  • Free your hand action, then learn to control it
  • Convey the illusions of light, depth, and texture
  • Stimulate your imagination through "creative play"

Summary

Chapter 1: The Fundamentals of Drawing

* Concept: Introduces the basic principles of drawing, including line, shape, form, and perspective.
* Example: Discusses how to draw a simple cube using straight lines and angles, demonstrating the principles of perspective and form.

Chapter 2: Understanding Shape and Form

* Concept: Explores different types of shapes and how they combine to create three-dimensional forms.
* Example: Provides step-by-step instructions for drawing a sphere, using curved lines and shading to create the illusion of roundness and volume.

Chapter 3: Master the Elements of Composition

* Concept: Introduces the principles of composition, such as balance, contrast, and focal point.
* Example: Analyzes a famous landscape painting, discussing how the artist used these principles to create a visually pleasing and impactful image.

Chapter 4: Drawing Techniques

* Concept: Covers various drawing techniques, including line drawing, hatching, cross-hatching, and blending.
* Example: Demonstrates the use of cross-hatching to create depth and texture in a portrait drawing, explaining how the technique adds dimensionality and realism.

Chapter 5: Shading and Shadowing

* Concept: Explains the importance of shading and shadowing in creating realistic drawings.
* Example: Provides instructions for shading a cylindrical object, guiding readers through the process of identifying light sources and applying shadows to create depth.

Chapter 6: Drawing Different Textures

* Concept: Introduces various textures and how to draw them, including rough, smooth, metallic, and organic textures.
* Example: Shows how to capture the texture of a wooden surface by using hatching and blending techniques, creating the illusion of grain and depth.

Chapter 7: Drawing Landscapes

* Concept: Provides guidance on drawing landscapes, covering techniques for capturing perspective, depth, and atmosphere.
* Example: Analyzes a drawing of a mountain landscape, explaining the artist's use of aerial perspective and line variation to convey distance and depth.

Chapter 8: Drawing Portraits

* Concept: Explores the techniques involved in drawing portraits, including capturing facial features, expressions, and emotions.
* Example: Guides readers through the process of drawing a human eye, emphasizing the importance of accurate proportions and attention to detail.

Chapter 9: Drawing Animals

* Concept: Covers the specific challenges of drawing animals, such as capturing their anatomy, movement, and fur.
* Example: Demonstrates how to draw a horse galloping, using dynamic lines and shading to convey the animal's energy and grace.

Chapter 10: Drawing for Fun and Expression

* Concept: Emphasizes the importance of drawing as a means of personal expression and creativity.
* Example: Encourages readers to experiment with different drawing materials and techniques, exploring unconventional approaches and finding their own unique style.