Topic Four (1.4): Drawing composition

Topics Icon.png 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.

Get Creative Icon.jpg 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

Interact Icon.png 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 1.4aPlay media comment.

  • 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.

Interact Icon.png Topic 1.4b: Extended Drawing Composition

Watch the video carefully and practice the techniques that are demonstrated.

WATCH - Video 1.4b Download WATCH - Video 1.4bPlay media comment.

  • 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.

Review Icon.png 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.

Consolidate Icon.png 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.