plate no. 4585
Delft: Nieuwe Kerk
M.C. Escher, 1939
some experience helpful
This artwork focuses on precise linework and understanding of value to create form and depth. Recreating it will improve skills in controlled mark-making and translating a three-dimensional scene into a two-dimensional composition.
technical profile
palette complexity
1
brushwork visibility
1
value contrast
5
compositional simplicity
3
study guide
est. 12 hrsapproach — 8 steps
- step 01
Begin with a light sketch of the overall composition, focusing on the main shapes and proportions of the church and surrounding buildings.
- step 02
Divide the image into distinct areas of light and shadow to establish the value structure.
- step 03
Start filling in the darkest areas with solid black, paying close attention to the direction and density of the lines.
- step 04
Use varying line weights and spacing to create different shades of gray and suggest form.
- step 05
Work from the darkest areas to the lightest, gradually adding detail and texture.
- step 06
Pay attention to the perspective and ensure that lines converge correctly to create a sense of depth.
- step 07
Refine the linework and add any final details, such as windows, architectural elements, and foliage.
- step 08
Step back and assess the overall balance and contrast of the image, making any necessary adjustments.
color palette
primary · black · white
secondary ·
This is a black and white image, so no color mixing is required. The key is to control the density and spacing of the lines to create different shades of gray.
techniques
- ·hatching
- ·cross-hatching
- ·stippling
- ·line variation
common pitfalls
- →Failing to establish a clear value structure before adding detail.
- →Using lines that are too uniform in weight and spacing.
- →Ignoring perspective and creating a flat, unrealistic image.
- →Overworking the image and losing the freshness of the linework.
materials
surface · smooth drawing paper
required
- ·Pencil (HB or 2B)
- ·Eraser
- ·Ruler
- ·Fine liner pens (various sizes)
- ·Drawing paper (smooth surface)
- ·Tracing paper
optional
- ·light box
- ·graphite pencils (various grades)
Use high-quality drawing paper that can withstand the use of fine liner pens without bleeding or feathering. Consider using a light box to transfer the initial sketch onto the final drawing surface.
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