plate no. 1690
The Cat Who Became a Woman
some experience helpful
This drawing provides practice in rendering light and shadow within an interior space, and in capturing textures with hatching and cross-hatching techniques. Students will also learn to create a sense of depth using value and line weight.
technical profile
palette complexity
2
brushwork visibility
4
value contrast
3
compositional simplicity
3
study guide
est. 8 hrsapproach — 7 steps
- step 01
Lightly sketch the basic shapes and composition, paying attention to proportions.
- step 02
Establish the darkest areas of the drawing with a soft pencil or charcoal.
- step 03
Begin to build up the mid-tones using hatching and cross-hatching techniques.
- step 04
Pay attention to the direction of light and how it affects the forms.
- step 05
Add details to the figures and objects, refining the shapes and textures.
- step 06
Use a kneaded eraser to lift highlights and create a sense of atmosphere.
- step 07
Strengthen the darkest areas and add final details to complete the drawing.
color palette
primary · charcoal gray · sepia
secondary · ivory · light blue-gray
Use varying pressure and layering to achieve different shades of gray and brown. Lightly smudge areas to create softer transitions.
techniques
- ·hatching
- ·cross-hatching
- ·smudging
- ·value shading
- ·linear perspective
common pitfalls
- →overworking the drawing
- →not establishing a clear light source
- →flattening the forms
- →ignoring proportions
materials
surface · drawing paper
required
- ·drawing paper
- ·charcoal pencils (HB, 2B, 4B)
- ·kneaded eraser
- ·pencil sharpener
- ·ruler
- ·fixative spray
optional
- ·tortillon
- ·sandpaper block
- ·soft cloth
Use a smooth or slightly textured paper for best results. Fixative spray will prevent smudging.
tips & new artworks in your inbox
no spam — unsubscribe anytime.
or to save artworks, chat, and track progress
related guides
in this vein
