Light and Shadow

This week we focused on the study of light and shadow. Trying again to pull us away from the 'outline then fill it in' technique we instead color a page of newsprint entirely with charcoal then use our erasers to pick out the light areas, focusing on shapes, then using charcoal to deepen the shadows.

I loved this exercise. And in answer to one student's lament: 'i just want to complete one pose please', the prof had the model remain in one pose, with several breaks, for the duration of the class. I was able to complete 2 drawings in the time (3hrs). Again, the teacher pointed out my issues with proportion but, and i'm quite proud to say, was really pleased with my work (he held it up for others to see!! the equivalent to putting it on the fridge door lol).

Compressed charcoal on newsprint