Shadow & Light Drawing with Charcoal

Why are shadow and light important in drawing? How can we create them using charcoal, kneaded erasers, and tortillon tools? Without shadow and light, the world would appear flat. To see an object, we need light to define it. Because there is light, a shadow will be cast, creating a sense of space and enveloping the object or person. Shadow and light can lend realism, mystery, and emotion. We will explore the subtleties of shadow and light through exercises, still life, and their use on the human face and body. We will study famous artists who are masters of shadow and light, such as John Singer Sargent, Kathe Kollwitz, and Rembrandt. We will also analyze photographs we bring in to assess their shadows and lights, and we will draw from a model. Charcoal is a traditional medium for this subject and can be manipulated in many ways to create beautiful artwork. Basic drawing tips will be provided throughout, and there will be homework to help maintain continuity between classes.

Materials for first class: a variety of pencils, pack of vine charcoal (medium), a few charcoal pencils, kneaded erasers, and tortillon (rubbing) tools, any pad 11x8.5 or bigger (charcoal paper or newsprint). Bring in a favorite B&W photo (personal or clipped from a magazine/newspaper).