Charcoal | ART SECRETS STUDIO

2 min read

Simplifying Charcoal: My Favorite Brands and Why

I've simplified my charcoal experience by choosing top brands Winsor Newton's Vine & Marie's Willow for charcoal - here's why!

2 min read

Painting Technique: Humanism with Donatello & Mary Magdalene with Giotto's & Darker Farther Away

Donatello's "Mary Magdalene" embodies early Renaissance humanism, expressing emotion through texture & expressive mark-making.

2 min read

Tips and Techniques: How to Use Powdered Graphite and Nylon Charcoal Balls with Bristol Paper

Discover the versatility of Bristol paper: perfect for sketches, experimentation & artistic expression.

2 min read

Strathmore 300 Series Paper: The Artist's Best Friend for Sketching and Experimentation

Master sketching & charcoal art with Strathmore 300 Series paper! Forgiving, erasable & perfect for quick studies & exploration.

3 min read

Using an Unfinished Charcoal Drawing / Sketch to Analyze Venus DeMilo, the Concept of Contrapposto

Unlock realism through texture, Contrapposto & guiding the viewer's eye. Discover how 'losing and finding an edge' transforms your art.

2 min read

Sharpening Your Pencil and Gesture Drawing to Evoke Attitude & Energy

Unlock your creativity with the basics of pencil sharpening, gestural drawing, and attitude and energy.

2 min read

COLDS: Exploring Compositional Depth with Contrast, Overlapping Planes, Location, Direction, and Size

Learn how contrast (beyond light & dark), overlapping planes, location, direction & size create compelling narratives in your art.

2 min read

Best Drawing Paper Ever Rives BFK Paper: A Printing Tradition that Has withstood Time

Discover the timeless excellence of Rives paper, a trusted companion for artists & creatives worldwide since the mid-19th century. #Rives

3 min read

Capturing Mood: A Step-by-Step Guide to Creating Expressive Charcoal Drawings

Discover the art of capturing mood with charcoal! Step-by-step guide on creating expressive charcoal paintings & conveying emotion.