Monday, April 9, 2012

When to Erase, and When NOT To

It's been a whirlwind of a month -- I handed in a new book and got it approved. And my newest book is coming out on April 17 -- it's called "Basic Drawing Made Amazingly Easy." It cuts right to the chase for people who never really got an art education, and feel that they may be lacking in some of the basics, from perspective to still life and drawing people.

So my hint for the day is this: Erase, but not too soon. That doesn't mean you should stick to what you're drawing beyond the point where it looks good. It means that instead of erasing every time you make what you perceive as a mistake, draw "over" your work instead. While you're drawing, seek the right lines, until your image gets so messy, you can't tell one line from the other! Then erase. Why do I make this suggestion? Because you interrupt your rhythm every time you stop to erase. Get into a groove when you draw, and try to stay there as long as possible. That's how you break through the sticking points.

Chris

2 comments:

  1. That's a cool tip. I've never thought to do that before. It makes sense.

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  2. Use a fairly dark art pencil, which is softer, and you may find that the feel of it may help you "find" the right lines.

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