Why is there so much interest in observational drawing when we first started in the art of drawing?

Because it contributes to:

• Learn to master the strokes,
• develop the sense of observation,
• reproduce what we see exactly,
• get started in the techniques: perspective, proportions, shadow and light …

Observation will help you to go out on the streets, to go to the park, the zoo, the museum, etc., to many of the places that we have around us, allowing you to put into practice what you have studied and what you have learned in your trajectory as a cartoonist.

Generally, if you want to improve as an artist, you will have to learn to observe. You will be able to observe the works of others to learn from them and seek inspiration.

Observational drawing requires a lot of practice and an active learning process, since it is not only about observing something that you find interesting, but also studying that “something” and the world around it.

In fact, the objective of observation is to reproduce an identical model, but not simply by drawing line after line, because that would be copying, without learning. So how can you learn to observe? Well, you will have to learn to “disconnect” the brain to concentrate on pure observation, it is not about looking for reasons or interpreting. You will have to study and understand what characteristics or elements make something be in a certain way and present those characteristics.

Study why something catches your attention and take advantage of that curiosity to study it.

Simply consider the hand as the prolongation of the eyes.

Draw a body, a face, a still life … These are difficult exercises at first, but essential to become a versatile draftsman.

Once you master this ability to represent line by line what you see, the world of drawing and its great diversity, they will become more accessible.

Observing is an exercise that you will carry out throughout your life, it will help you to become increasingly wise and learn to fit the pieces of your puzzle, even allowing you to experiment with new forms, materials or techniques.

It is clear that acquiring the ability to perfectly reproduce a portrait, a landscape or an object, allows to express oneself through drawing more easily. Then you can get away from reality and even invent using your creativity and imagination.

Having ideas is one thing, knowing how to materialize them on a blank page is another.

Do you want to learn to observe? Start by choosing a model. Once chosen, observe it, study its structure and its material quality. Then put all the parts of the structure in order and transport it to a two-dimensional model.

Thanks to observation drawing, you will acquire the essential techniques for drawing. If you are interested in oil painting, check the announcements of our teachers to take an oil painting course .