top of page

The Art of Classical Drawing

Classical drawing is not just about learning how to measure. To do that, you have to stop, look, and compare. It is the beginning of an intellectual awareness of not only what is happening in front of you, but also how it affects you and how the relationships of other things going on around you or in harmony with the overall effect you experiencing. In the drawing process the understanding of how to achieve what you're looking at is much greater than you might realize. a term known in color, called simultaneous contrast is where the surrounding area affect the area that is perceived by the viewer. It requires a keen eye and a deep understanding of how shapes and colors interact with each other to understand how one day you achieve the goal that you're after in order this simple little PAIR, drawing may seem like a very juvenile simple little drawing but it's the beginning of you stepping into something you've always had a desire to do and at a high-level Classical drawing is the beginning to see in the world differently.



The Role of Color in Painting

When you paint with color, it’s about comparing. This involves a figure-ground relationship of warm and cool colors and simultaneous contrast, which affects the perception of value relationships and color appearance, changing constantly.


Importance of Measurement in Classical Drawing

The classical drawing technique of plumb line measuring is the beginning of a thought process of seeing and an awareness of what’s going on. It’s not necessarily more important than the other elements of drawing, but it’s one of the many things you have to master.


  • Handling of Edges: One such element is the handling of edges. When you shade with a pencil and blend at a high level without smearing with your finger or stomp, you become more aware of the edges. This awareness is crucial in creating realistic and compelling artwork.

  • Influence of Great Artists: Great artists like Sargent, Rembrandt, and Daniel Green have all demonstrated the power of edge control in their work. For instance, in a maritime ocean wave painting by Don Demers at the Vose gallery in Boston, every quarter of an inch, every half an inch, the edge was often broken, smeared, sharp - often a broken edge. Daniel Green, a highly loved professional portrait painter who passed away a while ago, introduced everyone to that broken edge effect forty years ago when he talked about Rembrandt and Sargent.

  • Impact of Broken Edges: Don’t forget that incredible Southwestern artist Turpening’s edges are all broken. This technique adds a unique texture and depth to the artwork, making it more engaging and visually appealing.


Why is Classical Drawing Important?

Classical drawing is important because it teaches you to look harder and develop the touch that needs to be developed. It’s a discipline that requires patience, precision, and a deep understanding of the fundamentals of art.


©2023 by Art Secrets Studio

bottom of page