Today, thanks to the internet, venues for learning about art are constantly growing.
From "How To" articles to art forums as well as individual websites and even Facebook the resources are endless. I have spent the last 8 years surfing the web to improve my own abillities. I have met so many artists willing to share their time and knowledge with me...they are amazing!
So I thought I would take a moment to thank them and share some links with you.
artpapa.com
The next link is a sub-forum of Artpapa.com and moderated by JD Hillberry. I have met and learned from many fine artists at this forum such as Linda Huber also known as Imaginee, Armin Mersmann, Paul Lung, Brian Duey, Bettyann Lemist and so many more.
Drawing with charcoal and pencil techniques with JD Hillberry
This next forum is owned by Brenda Hoddinott who is an incredible artist. Now she has enlisted the help of many talented individuals and in addition to all of her free lessons they offer classess with many prestigious artists, Mike Sibley and Cindy Wider just to name a couple.
http://www.drawspace.com/
Hope these links help you improve your skill level and happy surfing!
Laura
Wednesday, November 2, 2011
Tuesday, November 1, 2011
Choosing a photograph to draw from...
Due to copy write infringement and intellectual property laws etc., I draw from my own photographs. I am not a photographer by any means...hehehe...I just use a simple point and shoot camera to capture images and store them on my computer or on disc until needed. This gives me complete control over my work from start to finish.
If using a model it is wise to have a release form signed and to compensate your model for their time. You can find a simple release form on line. I am not an attorney nor do I intend this to be legal advice....if you are confused about copy write laws, etc. please consult an attorney who specializes in that area of law.
The perfect picture to draw from would have good lighting. There would be bright highlights, compelling dark shadows and all the lovely shades of gray in between, but lets face it not all photos are created equal...hehehe...by storing my photos in a digital format I can manipulate the image ie., enlarge the photo for more detail or boost the brightness or contrast for a greater tonal range.
I may have an image that I adore, but it may not have the "right" lighting. As an experienced artist I can create the look I am after by using several images, and my imagination. Drawing a memorable portrait is not about copying a photograph. It is about creating a feeling or portraying the personality of the subject.
In addition to good lighting a good photo will have lots of detail. No working from little itty bitty photos here people...realism is in the details. The more you can "see" and draw the better your results will be!
I hope these tips will help you choose your reference photos with more thought. Don't forget to listen to that little voice inside and follow your instincts when an image "tickles" your eyes, but if the photo is not yours always get permission.
You get what you give,
Laura
Due to copy write infringement and intellectual property laws etc., I draw from my own photographs. I am not a photographer by any means...hehehe...I just use a simple point and shoot camera to capture images and store them on my computer or on disc until needed. This gives me complete control over my work from start to finish.
If using a model it is wise to have a release form signed and to compensate your model for their time. You can find a simple release form on line. I am not an attorney nor do I intend this to be legal advice....if you are confused about copy write laws, etc. please consult an attorney who specializes in that area of law.
The perfect picture to draw from would have good lighting. There would be bright highlights, compelling dark shadows and all the lovely shades of gray in between, but lets face it not all photos are created equal...hehehe...by storing my photos in a digital format I can manipulate the image ie., enlarge the photo for more detail or boost the brightness or contrast for a greater tonal range.
I may have an image that I adore, but it may not have the "right" lighting. As an experienced artist I can create the look I am after by using several images, and my imagination. Drawing a memorable portrait is not about copying a photograph. It is about creating a feeling or portraying the personality of the subject.
In addition to good lighting a good photo will have lots of detail. No working from little itty bitty photos here people...realism is in the details. The more you can "see" and draw the better your results will be!
I hope these tips will help you choose your reference photos with more thought. Don't forget to listen to that little voice inside and follow your instincts when an image "tickles" your eyes, but if the photo is not yours always get permission.
You get what you give,
Laura
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