Introduction to Sketching

This is a structured course guided by a curriculum that is broken down into six 1-hour long classes. Designed and taught by artist Pedro Loureiro (@pedromacloureiro), this course will take you from a total beginner to feeling comfortable drawing the world around you.

This course is suitable for absolute beginners.

At the end of this course, you'll learn:

• Different kinds of lines and how to do them;

• How to add volume and shadow to your sketches;

• Basics of (fun!) perspective and composition;

• How to work from a reference photo and a live subject.
  

CLASS CURRICULUM:

Session 1: Getting Started: Basic Drawing Techniques & Tools

Aside from covering plenty of sketching supplies, Pedro will teach you about the different lines you can create with a simple pen and what you can use them for.

Session 2: Learn to See: Blind Sketching with Eyes Wide Open

Change the way you look at your subject by practising blind-contour drawing. At the end of this lesson, you will be able to confidently sketch an object in continuous lines without looking at the paper.

Session 3: Volume, Textures, and Shadows

Visualise volume, texture and shadow through hatching, cross-hatching and curved textures. Then, translate that tridimensional information to the flat surface of the paper. At the end of this lesson, you will be able to perceive and represent a shaded surface, a projected shadow and a curved surface, and decide where the shadow ends and the light begins.

Session 4: Shapes: Perspective and Facing the Blank Page

Learn how to measure your subject, imply perspective, and better understand what to leave out. At the end of today's lesson, you will be able to sketch an actual urban scene… easily.

Session 5: Focus Your Sketch (and Your Story)

Learn the power of filtering elements, negative space and connections. At the end of this lesson, you will be able to decide the story you want to tell with your sketch and focus your time and energy to better convey that story. As a result, your sketches will be clearer, more engaging, and meaningful.

Session 6: Composition 101: Getting Fancy With Your Page

Learn 5 simple composition tricks that will boost your art and help you decide what to sketch, where to sketch, and what to include and exclude in your composition - and how to be efficient about it. At the end of this class, you will know how to make all the elements in your sketch work.

REFERENCE PHOTOS & COURSE MATERIALS

• Download here

ESSENTIAL SUPPLIES

• Etchr Perfect Sketchbook

• A simple rollerball pen

• Pigment fineliner or fountain pen