Topic Four (1.4): Drawing composition
Objective
In this topic you will learn how to plan a composition and gather ideas together for your extended drawing. You will also learn:
- how to create a series of thumbnail sketches as a way of planning a composition.
- how to create an extended drawing composition demonstrating all the skills you have learnt in this unit.
Equipment Required
- A range of pencils HB, 2B, 4B and a graphite stick
- Your research images
- Your A5 sketch pad
- A larger piece of A3 drawing paper
- Artist fixative or hairspray
Topic 1.4a: Gathering research and drawing thumbnail sketches
Watch the video carefully and practise the techniques that are demonstrated.
WATCH - Video 1.4a Download WATCH - Video 1.4a
- After watching the video, gather all your drawings and photographs together.
- You are going to draw a series of small sketches.
- Try drawing different images in the foreground and background.
- You could also frame your picture with trees or other objects.
- A thumbnail sketch does not need to show detail, it is simply a plan.
- Use your imagination to create compositions.
Topic 1.4b: Extended Drawing Composition
Watch the video carefully and practice the techniques that are demonstrated.
WATCH - Video 1.4b Download WATCH - Video 1.4b
- Now that you have watched the video, lightly draw out your chosen composition, do not add any detail at the beginning.
- Gradually add more detail including shading and tone.
- Try to use the techniques you have learnt to build the structure of your subject matter.
- Try and work from different angles - such as turning your drawing upside down.
- Take your time drawing this final piece.
Reflecting
Let’s review your learning. How confident are you now with the following?
- Now that you have watched the video, lightly draw out your chosen composition, do not add any detail at the beginning.
- Gradually add more detail including shading and tone.
- Try to use the techniques you have learnt to build the structure of your subject matter.
- Try and work from different angles - such as turning your drawing upside down.
- Take your time drawing this final piece.
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.