Drawing from Life

by Clint Brown, Cheryl McLean

The leading textbook for college figure-drawing classes, DRAWING FROM LIFE provides a clear, comprehensive, and thought-provoking guide to drawing the human form for anyone interested in exploring this time-honored artistic tradition. For centuries, drawing the human figure has given artists the tools and vocabulary for creating paintings, sculpture, drawings, or prints-from Renaissance classical to contemporary expression. In addition to working from the model, the figure-drawing student needs instruction in anatomy, history, and conceptual approaches to drawing the human form; such instruction is often missing from life drawing classes due to time constraints. DRAWING FROM LIFE offers these elements, along with a tremendous selection of drawings that represent the broad range of approaches, techniques, and media for drawing from life. The chapters follow the natural development of a student's growth, from fundamental sketching and gesture drawing to creative expression and exploration. An entire chapter on drawing the figure in perspective offers information that is not available in comparable textbooks. Students begin with quick sketches and gesture drawings, giving them a non-threatening introduction on a level they can readily understand and master. The cohesive presentation of anatomy, including a chapter on the human head, helps students understand the human structure and its impact on visible form. The final section brings the concepts, vocabulary, and history presented in the earlier chapters to bear on contemporary use of the figure in art.

Genres: Art, Nonfiction, Drawing

272 pages, Paperback

First published August 28, 1996

Reviews

[Chuck · Rating 4 out of 5]

Great beginners’ guide. Particularly like the “in the studio” exercises at the end of each chapter.

[This Is Not The Michael You're Looking For · Rating 3 out of 5]

This is a decent, although not fabulous book on life drawing. It uses many classical and non-classical works to illustrate various techniques and styles, as well as a reasonably thorough coverage of major anatomy from an illustrator's perspective. It does not include basic drawing techniques, per se, focusing on life drawing rather than drawing in general. Like many textbooks, it's also seems a bit expensive for its content.

[Reuel · Rating 4 out of 5]

Useful info on all aspect of basic life drawing to augment actual studio experience. Good, brief presentation of anatomy and physiology for artists, too.