Introduction to Drawing — Free Lessons on Demand — Learn to draw!
My 7-lesson, streaming, Introduction to Drawing course is based on my in-person course, and takes you through basic concepts and skills important for learning to draw in a realist manner from observation using charcoal on paper. In every lesson I go through the supplies you need, share how to set up your own still life (or you’re welcome to draw my still life), and guide you through each drawing. The lessons build on each other and are meant to be done in sequence, but you are welcome work through the lessons in any order you choose. Individual lessons are great for brushing up on your skills. (And you’re welcome to just relax and watch me draw!) Click here for a list of supplies I use in this class. At the bottom of this page you’ll find a couple of extra drawing exercises.
Introduction to Drawing Series Trailer
A quick preview of the course.
Advanced Form and Shading - Lesson Three
This lessons expands on Lessons 2 and 3 and guides you through a drawing of a single pear from start to finish. (32 minutes)
Exploring Negative Space - Lesson Five
Learn how to use negative space (the space between things) to help you draw. (12 minutes)
Supplies
A short video about which tools I use in the lessons. I also show you how I sharpen charcoal sticks and pencils. (10 minutes)
Create a Observational Journal
Spend a little time each day drawing in an observational journal using a gel pen.
(9 minutes)
Finding Form - Lesson One
Learn to use an Envelope and Block-in to draw a simple still life. (20 minutes)
Visual Linear Perspective - Lesson Four
This lesson focuses on how to freehand draw perspective.(14 minutes)
The Essence of Things -
Lesson Six
This lesson focuses on observation and how to interpret what you see while taking you through drawing a still life comprised of four different objects. (28 minutes)
From start to finish - drawing a Pear
(4 minutes)
Shading Light and Shadow - Lesson Two
Learn about light and how to use charcoal to shade a sphere. (23 minutes)
If you enjoy these lessons, please consider donating to me via PayPal! Any amount helps and is greatly appreciated! Thank you!
Mark Making - Lesson Seven
This lesson focuses on how to use your charcoal to its fullest and encourages you to explore drawing expressively. (13 minutes)
A Mini Portrait Drawing Project
A demo / mini workshop drawing portraits in a vintage book using a ruling pen. (7 minutes)