Student Work
These drawings range from under 30 seconds (gesture) to 2 t0 5 minutes (extended gesture) to varying lengths from 15 min. to one hour. Most fall in the 15 min. to 35 min. range but value studies and more complex compositions can require poses an hour or longer in duration.
Students are encouraged to use methods (stick figure, blocking in large forms) which allow them to see the figure as a whole. Bond paper is used for practice because it is very smooth and allows rubbing out of lines with a chamois skin. The use of the chamois accounts for smudges on the drawings. Erasers are not used for correction because it is important that students not completely remove marks when they correct so they do not repeat the error. Also erasers can disturb the surface of softer papers so students are weaned from depending on erasers for correction.
Correct proportion and capturing the gesture of the pose is given great emphasis. At the same time students are encouraged to be conscious of the kind of lines they are making. Students use sighting sticks to check correct alignment of the parts of the body in relation to what they see on the model.
Drawing of the lower half of body
Steve seated, extended gesture
Sabina standing, extended gesture
From candid sketch: man eating
Mark seated on stool (value study)
Three Figures in the Cubist manner
Composition with two views of model
Two views of model with easels