As part of my independent study of classical drawing and painting, I am posting my progress. Initially I was hesitant about doing this because I am approaching this study as if I have had little to no art training. Because these drawings will be seen by many viewers, I wanted to render the Bargue drawings the way I would a medical drawing, with exacting detail. I decided to check my pride at the door, begin drawing as a beginner and see just how far I can go. My hope is that I become a more skilled and knowledgeable artist while at the same time any one following my blog who may actually be a beginner find inspiration to continue working toward success.
With the many exercises I will be undertaking, I will work on training my eye to see with greater accuracy and develop a more efficient harmonious collaboration of my mind, hand, and eyes. I will be making use of various measuring techniques which include: sight-size, comparative, 1 to 1 ratio. I will also make use of various drawing approaches including the construct, the gestural block-in, the envelop block-in, and loose gestural approach. Each method of measure and approach yields great accuracy if done correctly.
The first set of drawings are very basic. I utilized the sight-size method so I could achieve proper proportions.
The following Bargue drawings were done using the 1:1 ratio method of measure.
The Next series of Bargue drawings were done utilizing the comparative measurement approach.
Michael A. Cooley, Standing Man Arms Spreading Out, 2011, Graphite.
Michael A. Cooley, Seated Man Left Profile, 2011, Graphite.
Michael A. Cooley, Seated Man Rear View, 2011, Graphite.
I really learned a lot making these drawings. In each case, I had to slow down and make careful observations. Learning to be patient is tough but it will pay off in the end. I hope you will continue following me as I grow as an artist and if I can inspire you in some way, that is wonderful.
take care until next time,
Michael