For this exercise I was tasked to complete 3 figure drawings, one lounging, one seated and and one standing, however I only completed 2 due to time constraints. For both studies i completed a few quick sketches before settling on views which included foreshortening to add interest and help with my practice. For each final study I took a photograph to work from. I also used different mediums to explore techniques and effects especially as these were both completed on quite a large scale – A2. Whilst both figures were clothed i tried to remain mindful of the body structure beneath and was conscious of making the structure flow. As well as this in the standing figure i was more mindful of the central line, and how the arms were holding the body upright against the weight of the chair.
Both figures were challenging because of the views but also because of the medium used. Pen is not forgiving when mistakes are made and I found oil pastel was not good for detail. In particular I dont think the oil pastel worked for the dimensions of this image; I think it would be better if I was working on a much bigger scale or focusing in on a smaller area such as a large portrait.
With the first study, whilst I roughly scaled the image on the paper at the outset this did not work, as the scale ratio of the photograph to the paper was not true which I did not account for so had to change as I went along. Additionally, the tilt of the head was not accurate though I don’t think it matters, but the size of hands and feet seem smaller than they should be and as I said was difficult to correct because of the medium used.
I realise with these studies that I have a tendency to work on detail to quickly rather than working softly and gradually across the whole image until I have got the proportions right. This is something I really need to work on as I don’t seem to see this happen – I seem to get quite engrossed in what I am doing and did not become aware until quite far into my drawings and when it is too late often to make corrections.
Preliminary sketches for lounging figure, conte pencil on paper.
Lounging figure, final study, ball point pen and coloured pencil on paper.
Preliminary sketches for tanking figure, fine liner pen on paper.
Standing figure, final study, oil pastels on paper.
Deborah McAulay 