Great videos of Chris Wahl Drawing a Girl
Check out some fantastic videos of Chris Wahl drawing a girl on his blog, Chris Wahl Art.
These videos provide a clear view of his drawing process without any obstructions, making it easy to follow along.
In the first video, Chris begins sketching in blue, which might be a bit faint initially but gives you a glimpse into his sketching techniques.
The second video showcases the transformation as he adds color to the black-and-white sketch, bringing the artwork to life.
For the best viewing experience, make sure to select the original size at the bottom right of the video console.
Here are behind-the-scenes photos of some of Chris’s work and a step-by-step guide to an illustration he did for the Sydney Morning Herald.
Video Highlights and Techniques
Chris Wahl’s videos on his blog, Chris Wahl Art, are an excellent resource for anyone interested in learning the art of sketching, particularly in drawing portraits.
His technique is detailed and allows viewers to see the entire process without any distractions, which is a huge benefit for learners trying to understand the nuances of sketching.
Video Highlights and Techniques: In the first video, Chris begins with a blue pencil, which may be faint but serves an essential purpose.
This stage is often referred to as the “underdrawing” or “construction phase,” where the basic shapes and proportions are laid out.
Using a lighter pencil allows for easy adjustments and corrections.
This technique is crucial for beginners learning to establish the correct proportions and placement of features.
The second video transitions to adding color to the black-and-white sketch, showcasing how Wahl brings depth and vibrancy to his drawings.
He uses a layering technique, starting with light base colors and gradually adding darker tones and details.
This approach adds dimension to the drawing and highlights the importance of understanding light and shadow in portraiture.
Recommended Sketching Techniques for Portraits
- Proportion and Anatomy: Understanding human anatomy and proportions is foundational. Books like “Figure Drawing for All It’s Worth” by Andrew Loomis provide detailed guidance on the subject. They explain how to measure and place facial features accurately, which is critical for achieving a realistic likeness.
- Gesture Drawing: Gesture drawing focuses on capturing the essence and movement of a figure. This technique is particularly useful in the early stages of a sketch. It helps artists to avoid stiff and lifeless drawings. A recommended resource is “Gesture Drawing for Animation” by Walt Stanchfield, which, while geared towards animators, offers valuable insights into capturing the fluidity of human movement.
- Light and Shadow: Mastering the use of light and shadow can dramatically improve the realism of a portrait. Chris Wahl demonstrates this in his videos, where he uses shading to create depth. “Light for Visual Artists” by Richard Yot is an excellent book that delves into understanding light in art, teaching how to observe and replicate different lighting scenarios.
- Texture and Detail: Adding texture and fine details can bring a portrait to life. Whether it’s the texture of the skin or the intricate details in the hair and eyes, attention to these elements can make a big difference. “Drawing Realistic Textures in Pencil” by J.D. Hillberry is a comprehensive guide that covers various techniques for achieving realistic textures in pencil drawings.
- Using References: Working with reference photos or live models is a valuable practice. References help in studying how light interacts with different surfaces and how to accurately depict subtle variations in facial features. Books like “The Artist’s Complete Guide to Drawing the Head” by William Maughan provide structured methods for using references effectively.
Additional Resources
- YouTube Tutorials: Many artists, including Chris Wahl, share their techniques on platforms like YouTube, offering step-by-step tutorials that are invaluable for visual learners.
- Art Communities and Forums: Engaging with online communities such as DeviantArt or Reddit’s r/learnart can provide feedback and inspiration from fellow artists.
By integrating these techniques and resources into your practice, you can improve your portrait sketching skills.
Chris Wahl’s approach, combined with a strong foundation in the basics and continuous learning from resources like the recommended books, will help you create compelling and lifelike portraits.
Remember, the key to mastering any art form is consistent practice and a willingness to experiment and learn from mistakes.
