plate no. 8750
El Flaco
some experience helpful
This drawing is a good exercise in understanding value and form using charcoal. Students can learn to create depth and volume through careful shading and blending techniques.
technical profile
palette complexity
2
brushwork visibility
4
value contrast
4
compositional simplicity
4
study guide
est. 6 hrsapproach — 8 steps
- step 01
Lightly sketch the basic shapes of the head, shoulders, and hair.
- step 02
Establish the main light source and map out the areas of light and shadow.
- step 03
Begin applying charcoal in broad strokes, focusing on the darkest areas first.
- step 04
Blend the charcoal with a blending stump or finger to create smooth transitions.
- step 05
Gradually build up the values, adding more layers of charcoal to deepen the shadows.
- step 06
Use a kneaded eraser to lift highlights and refine the shapes.
- step 07
Add details to the eyes, nose, and mouth, paying attention to the subtle variations in value.
- step 08
Refine the hair, using short, curved strokes to create texture.
color palette
primary · sepia · white (paper)
secondary ·
Varying pressure and blending techniques will create the range of values needed.
techniques
- ·charcoal blending
- ·value shading
- ·form rendering
- ·hatching
- ·cross-hatching
common pitfalls
- →Applying too much charcoal too early.
- →Over-blending, which can result in a muddy appearance.
- →Not paying attention to the underlying structure of the face.
- →Ignoring the subtle variations in value.
materials
surface · drawing paper
required
- ·charcoal pencils (soft, medium, hard)
- ·drawing paper
- ·kneaded eraser
- ·blending stump
- ·fixative spray
- ·pencil sharpener
optional
- ·chamois cloth
- ·ruler
Use a paper with a slight tooth to better grip the charcoal.
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