Topic Three (1.3): Looking at shapes
Objective
In this topic you will be learning how to use simple shapes to draw difficult objects. You will also learn:
- techniques to draw basic shapes.
- how to draw objects freehand using basic shapes.
Equipment Required
- A range of pencils HB, 2B, 4B
- A small A5 sketch pad
- A larger A3 sketch pad
- Tracing paper
- A selection of objects to draw
Topic 1.3a: Breaking down drawing into basic shapes
Watch the video carefully and practice the techniques that are demonstrated.
WATCH - Video 1.3a Download WATCH - Video 1.3a
- After watching the video, spend time practising drawing geometrical shapes.
- Once you feel confident, try and draw a simple object using shape.
This is called drawing structures.
Topic 1.3b: Tracing shapes and identifying structures.
Watch the video carefully and practice the techniques that are demonstrated.
WATCH - Video 1.3b Download WATCH - Video 1.3b
- Now that you have watched the video, decide on a subject matter that you are interested in.
- Either take photographs or sketch this subject matter.
- Practise tracing some of the images.
Just focus on the outlines of the subject matter.
Topic 1.3c: Drawing freehand using shape building.
Watch the video carefully and practice the techniques that are demonstrated.
WATCH - Video 1.3c Download WATCH - Video 1.3c
- Now that you have watched the video, try using simple shapes to draw the interior structure.
- Practise shading warm-ups, trying to get light and dark tones and blend them together. Use the side of your pencil.
- Use a very ´light weight of line´ when you are drawing.
- Once you are happy with the shape, you can start to press harder and define the outline more clearly.
- Then you can add more detail and directional shading to your drawing.
- Keep practising this technique.
Reflecting
Let’s review your learning. How confident are you now with the following?
- Drawing geometrical shapes
- Constructing images using basic shapes
- Using directional shading to show form
- Being able to identify structure in objects
Consolidating your learning
- Go back through your sketch pad.
- Have you filled up all the spaces in your pages?
- Could you add some more drawings to the pages?
- Have you photographed and recorded your work?
- You can also add comments or thoughts in your sketch pad.
- Take time to make your sketch pad look great, but remember to show your mistakes as well.
- If you have worked on paper, stick them into your sketch pad.