Charcoal Sketch
You can do a great drawing just by emphasizing value and light. Here you see a five minute drawing of my wife, Norene, with charcoal. I drew very basic shapes — head, lips, nose, eyes and hairline. Next I squinted to see the shapes of the shadows. I blocked them in — the right side of the face, under the chin, under the bottom lip, the top lip, above the eyelids, then the hair. On the left side of the picture you’ll see dark shading right next to the hair. I always put that against the side that is lit.
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Comments on Charcoal Sketch
I continue to be in awe of your ability to create such a fantastic charcoal portrait, and in such a short time! That is a talent that few possess. You are so fortunate to have Norene as your willing model each day. She’s a jewel and you have managed to assure that she will be known through the ages (ie: Mona Lisa, etc.)
Charcoal drawings are my favorite.
I don’t know how you can create something like this in 5 minutes! The light and shadows and everything…incredible!