Often dismissed as a lowly art tool, the crayon is enjoying a resurgence. Lee Hammond reintroduces us to a childhood favourite, but this time using the right techniques to create lifelike and professional drawings.
The Joy of Creating For Anyone, Regardless of Age or Experience
This is a great medium for those longing to get back into some of the joy creating but without investing a lot of money into art supplies, or art lessons. It's important though, to realize that as a child, the crayon was a toy. The approach (and initial challenge) is to now use the crayon as an art tool.
Hammond's latest addition to her "how-to" art series is filled with examples, including before and after as well as step by step instructions and pictures. While the introduction may seem a bit intimidating to the total novice by the use of technical terms, all is explained in the first two chapters of Getting Started and Techniques. Experts and novices with both benefit from Amazing Crayon Drawing.
Focus on Specific Techniques and Modes
There are seven chapters, each focusing on a specific aspect of drawing or mode - such as animals, people, and cylindrical spheres. Indeed, not only are instructions provided on how to draw using a grid for appropriate proportion, but a handy plastic tear-out grid is provided in the back of the book.
Hammond writes in a clear voice and encouraging tone. By using side by side examples of how a picture would look with a specific technique or mode, the reader (and budding artist) can easily see the difference. Hammond also demonstrates how the paper used is important to the final artwork. While regular paper may give the impression (and the desire) of a childlike scribbled fill-ins, a more textured and heavier graded paper provides for a realistic rendering.
Simplicity and Low Cost of Required Artist Tools Makes this a Great Winner
Hammond is also not shy nor secretive on tips to create the illusion of light within a picture. Throughout each example she often explains exactly how to mimic her effect.
But best of all is the simplicity and inexpensive cost of artist tools required. This is a great project for any summer cottage or quick creative break. The results are truly astonishing - and all accomplished with that magic box of crayons.
Book courtesy of FSB Associates.
Sources:
- Hammond, Lee. Amazing Crayon Drawing. Cincinnati, OH USA: North Light Books, 2011.
Paym Bergson - Paym Bergson - freelance entrepreneur & career coach with extensive experience working in the educational/professional development ...
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