SIP & SKETCH

Focus on gesture before detail. Start with quick, loose lines to capture the movement and energy of the pose. Think about the flow of the body rather than get caught up in small details too soon. This helps train your eye to see the overall form and rhythm instead of fixating on isolated features.

Your next step could be blocking in basic forms. Build Structure with Simple Shapes. Break the body down into basic geometric forms (cylinders, spheres, and boxes) to establish volume and proportion. Pay attention to centre line of the torso and limbs to maintain balance and perspective. Think 3D.

Refine Proportions and Landmarks Identify key anatomical landmarks (ribcage, pelvis, joints). Compare sizes and angles between different parts of the body. Using the head as a unit of measurement. You can also use negative space to help with proportions.

Shading is used to add depth and form. For shading, consider the light sources. The light side will have highlights and mid-tones, while the shadow side will have core shadows and reflected light. You can use hatching, cross-hatching, or blending. Follow the form when shading - use curved strokes.

Here are some great life drawing exercises to improve your skills: Gesture Drawing; Blind Contour Drawing; Negative Space Drawing; Shape Blocking; One-Line Drawing; Upside-Down Drawing; Shadow Mapping (Tonal Studies); Foreshortening Drills.

Focus on the Folds. Observe the patterns of the folds: Drapery folds usually follow a consistent pattern (like waves or spirals). Look at how they bunch up, fold, and stretch, and capture the rhythm. Use directional and curves lines to show depth and tension within the folds.

You can use different grades of pencil. Deep shadows can be drawn with darker pencils (B, 2B, or 4B), while lighter areas need softer strokes or a harder pencil (H, 2H). Some artists choose to use just one or two pencil applying different pressure to achieve their shading.