Week 5: The Art and Science of Drawing - Focus on Measuring and Proportion

Overview

• Objective: Learn measuring tools and strategies for accurate drawing.
• Goal: Remove guesswork from drawing by evaluating proportions effectively.

Key Concepts

Proportional Measuring

• Technique: Use your pencil to assess subject proportions.
• Purpose: To improve drawing accuracy and believability.

Plumb Lines

• Usage: Employ vertical and horizontal lines for comparing points on your subject.

Angle Sighting

• Function: Extract angles from your subject to replicate them in your drawing.

Importance of Measuring

• Measuring increases drawing accuracy.
• Requires practice for skill development.
• Different strategies have unique benefits and drawbacks, allowing for personalized approaches.

Understanding Proportion

• Definition: Size relationships between parts of a drawing subject.
• Proportionate Drawing: Accurate depiction of subject proportions.
• Out of Proportion: Parts are too large or small compared to reality.

Basic Theory

• Example: Square and rectangle ratio explanations.
  • Square with 1:1 ratio.
  • Doubling height or width to create new ratios (1:2, 2:1).
  • Using fractional and approximate relationships (1:1.5).
• Application: Start simple, e.g., using a simple egg shape.
  • Measure width at the widest point.
  • Compare width to height to find ratios.

Tools and Processes

Measuring Tools

• Common Tools: Pencil, knitting needles, paintbrush.
• Criteria: Straight, lightweight, rigid.

Posture

• Maintain a consistent position to avoid distorting measurements.
• Keep arm extended with elbow locked.

Technique

• Sight Lines: Align pencil with the subject's top and bottom.
• Marking: Use thumb to mark measurements on the pencil.

Application to Drawing

• Egg Example: Measure width and compare to height.
  • Establish width-to-height ratio (e.g., 1:1.3).
  • Use measuring to draw proportional boxes.

Complex Object Example

• Vase: Measure rim width and height.
  • Establish ratio (e.g., 2:3.3).
  • Use divisions to refine proportions and draw.

Practice Assignment

• Task: Select at least 5 simple subjects and explore proportions.
  • Draw boxes derived from subject measurements.
  • Practice volumetric drawing based on measured boxes.
• Emphasis on Practice: The more you practice, the quicker you learn.

Upcoming Lessons

• Next session will cover the use of plumb lines for further precision.