Visual Language: Observed Drawing Session

In this session we produced several observed drawings based on relatively simple subject matter (i.e. artfully piled detritus). This was a deliberative move away from strict illustration and encouraged us to test composition and tool usage.

I greatly enjoyed the use of thick matte black pens in combination with smaller fine liners, this could be used to create the impression of depth and introduce areas of value.

I also found that the playful use of tipex could be used to separate distinctive objects within the composition.

I took several liberties of colour usage as the subject matter was somewhat bland looking.

Overall I enjoyed the session, and I can see the benefits of applying observational drawing to future projects. It may be used to improve understanding of form and reveal subtle nuances within imagery. I have also found that distancing from the need to create formal illustration liberates the illustrator to investigate aesthetic ideas.