Omar Khalid
Copying reference drawings is a common practice for artists to train themselves on how to translate objects onto paper. Copying is a great exercise to improve drawing skills, but it is important to also create original compositions to avoid blind copying and to develop one's style. Artists can use models, still life setups, or photographs as references, and interpret these references into their own art style. Copying references can help artists develop their visual memory, and understand concepts such as perspective, anatomy, and lighting.
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What You'll Learn
Copying as a learning method
Copying is a great way to learn how to draw and has been used by artists for centuries. It is a method that can help you to understand how things translate onto paper and develop your visual memory. Copying can also be a good way to get started with drawing, especially if you are feeling hesitant or unsure about your abilities. It can be a relaxing and meditative exercise, and any practice is helpful.
However, it is important to remember that copying should not be the only method you use to learn how to draw. Once you have mastered the basics of copying, it is important to branch out and try drawing from your imagination. This might involve using geometric shapes to understand the underlying structure of your subject or modifying existing images to create something new. You can also try drawing from life or using still life setups to practice drawing from observation.
One way to improve your drawing skills is to use the Bargue method, which involves breaking down the drawing process into a series of steps. This can help you to achieve accurate results and ensure that you are not just copying the outer contour of the subject. Another technique is to study a picture for a set amount of time and then put it aside and try to draw it from memory. This can help you to develop your visual memory and improve your understanding of the subject.
It is also important to practice regularly and consistently. This might involve setting aside time each day to draw or gradually increasing the difficulty of your drawings. Additionally, it can be helpful to experiment with different approaches and techniques to find what works best for you.
Overall, copying can be a useful learning method for beginners, but it is important to branch out and try other techniques to continue developing your drawing skills.
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The Bargue method
The Bargue Plates are meant to be copied using the "sight-size" method, which differs from the "envelope" method. By creating master copies of these images, students learn various essential drawing techniques, including nuanced proportions, values, and lines. This structured approach ensures consistent results and provides a solid foundation for artists.
The process of copying the Bargue Plates helps train the eye to see and draw what is observed accurately. It also exposes artists to a classical sense of taste and improves their realistic drawing skills. While some may find the Bargue method tedious, it can lead to very good results and is a valuable learning experience for those seeking to improve their classical realism skills.
The Bargue-Gérôme Drawing Course is a reprint of the original 19th-century course and is available as a book for those who want to learn at their own pace. However, taking an art class or atelier training can provide structure and accountability, making it easier to stay motivated and committed to the learning process.
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Interpreting images
One way to interpret images and develop your drawing skills is to study a reference image for a set amount of time, then put it away and attempt to draw the subject from memory. This exercise helps strengthen your visual memory and highlights which details you remember and which you forget. It also encourages you to interpret and recreate the image in your own way, rather than simply copying it.
Another approach is to use the Bargue method, which provides a structured framework for drawing accurately. This method helps you to know where to start, the order to follow, and how to achieve accurate results. It involves breaking down the drawing process into distinct steps: gesture, height vs. width, midpoints, verticals and horizontals, and angles. By learning this method, you can consistently create accurate drawings, whether working from a reference image, a model, or your imagination.
Additionally, when interpreting images, it's beneficial to focus on understanding the underlying forms and shapes rather than just copying the outer contour. For example, when drawing a complex subject like a snail, you can interpret it as a combination of geometrical shapes such as cubes and cylinders, considering their form and perspective. This approach helps you capture the light, form, and perspective accurately, resulting in a more realistic representation of the reference image.
To further develop your skills, you can experiment with different compositions and poses. Reposition the subject in your reference image by changing their facial angle, arm positions, or body orientation. If your drawing looks odd when making these changes, it indicates an area for improvement. Refer to anatomy books or figure studies to understand the correct proportions and poses, enhancing your ability to interpret and draw subjects accurately from any angle.
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Drawing from imagination
One way to improve your drawing from imagination is to study and understand anatomy, particularly for human and animal figures. By understanding the underlying skeleton and muscle structure, you can more easily create different poses and movements in your drawings. This can be done through quick pose studies, where you focus on capturing the gesture and movement of the figure rather than getting caught up in the details.
Another technique is to use references as a starting point and then draw the subject from a different angle or perspective. For example, if you have a reference image of a person running from the 3/4 front view, try drawing it from the 3/4 back view. This helps you to understand the three-dimensional form of the subject and improves your ability to draw from imagination.
Additionally, drawing from life and using yourself as a reference can be beneficial. You can photograph yourself in different poses and use those images as a starting point to analyze and understand how your body moves and fits together. This can help you develop your drawing skills and improve your understanding of anatomy.
It is also important to study and draw from a variety of sources, including art in different styles, films, books, paintings, photographs, and even dreams and conversations. By exposing yourself to a wide range of influences, you can develop your own style and draw from your imagination more effectively.
Finally, consistent practice is key. Drawing from imagination is a skill that can be developed over time with dedication and patience. Don't be discouraged if it feels challenging at first; with practice, you will gradually improve and be able to create more complex and imaginative drawings.
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Using 3D models as reference
Using 3D models as a reference for drawing can be a great way to improve your skills and understanding of form and perspective. It can also help you achieve more accurate results in your drawings. Here are some tips for using 3D models as a reference:
Firstly, it is important to understand the basics of the form. Start by breaking down the subject into construction with geometrical shapes like cubes and cylinders. Draw through the invisible sides and ellipses to grasp the form better. This will help you avoid simply replicating the outer contour of what you're drawing.
Next, find a good 3D model that you can use as a reference. There are many free tools available online, such as PoseMy.Art, which allow you to pose 3D models with premade animations to create dynamic poses for reference. You can also try to find 3D models of objects or insects and sketch them from different angles to train your perspective.
Once you have your 3D reference, don't just copy it blindly. Interpret the reference into your own style, whether it's line art or something else. Try to capture the light and form accurately. Additionally, you can use the reference as a learning tool by studying it, putting it away, and then drawing from memory. Bring back the reference and compare and take notes on the differences. Repeat this process from different angles and views to improve your understanding.
Finally, remember that using a reference is just one method of drawing. To improve your overall skills, it's beneficial to combine this with other practices such as life drawing or drawing from photos, as long as they are of good quality and have good lighting.
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Frequently asked questions
Yes, it is a good way to practice and train yourself on how things translate onto paper. However, it is important to also draw from imagination and not rely too heavily on references.
Start by drawing basic geometrical shapes like cubes and cylinders, and then slowly modify them into the object you want to draw.
Study the reference for a set amount of time, put it away, and then try to draw it from memory. Also, try repositioning the subject in your drawing to practice understanding anatomy and perspective.
Copying references is a good exercise, but it is important to also create your own compositions. Try limiting copying to one day a week and focus on drawing from imagination on the other days.
Try drawing still life setups or plein air (outdoor painting). You can also use the Bargue method, which provides a structured approach to drawing accurately without relying heavily on references.
