Exploratory Drawing: Techniques with Graphite, Chalk, and Toned Paper

Are you interested in speeding up and developing a more intuitive drawing process? In this class, we will explore the possibilities of graphite and white chalk on toned paper – one of the most time-efficient drawing combinations. Using an exploratory approach, we will discuss how to use this medium to build up your values in a reactionary manner, starting from a compressed value range. Rather than setting the final range of your light and dark keys from the beginning of the drawing, we will explore how to work towards deciding on your full value scale gradually. This style of drawing can lead to a more organic feeling process, and can result in atmospheric drawings.

This 2-day workshop is a short intensive in what to consider when doing atmospheric graphite, chalk, and toned paper drawings. We will work from photos to keep the exercise focused on the materials. Students will be provided with a set up of images to choose from (portrait, botanical, object). Each day will start with a demo and then students will have time to work with instructor critiques.

No experience necessary! Suitable for artists at all stages who want to try something new or strengthen their skills.

Topics covered include:

Finding your block in quickly with both line and value

Value compression and deciding what you want your range of values to be

Working efficiently using toned paper, chalk, and graphite

Rendering information and shading techniques

Building up your light and dark keys in stages, working more from your midtones