Learning How to Draw - FAQ (Part 1)

Q: Hi I do pencil sketching. But I want to learn it professionally. I do not know to draw portraits, so I'm very interested in learning how to draw portraits. - Anita

Hi Anita. Drawing portraits can be tricky especially if you're new to drawing. Portraits are challenging to draw because of the many different parts that have to come together to portray a visual resemblance. For example, the eyes, ears, lips, nose and face have to be proportional to one another for a portrait to have a likeness of the subject.

More skillful portraitists know how to capture the essence of the face. That means being able to capture the fine details that portray the character of the face. So it's not as easy as just drawing some "Hollywood" faces that look plastic.

If you're just starting out, I suggest doing some homework first. Start by isolating each feature and practice until you're satisfied before moving on. Draw faces that you're already familiar with. You'll find that familiar faces are easier to draw.

Q: Hello Darren, I am 62 years old, and I think I have some talent to draw. The main problem is my hands and fingers, they are stiff and sore. The other thing is, just getting started. I am a fan of Fantasy Art and have collected others' pictures for years. - Naomi

Hi Naomi. Due to the condition of your fingers, I recommend that you avoid long and tiring drawing sessions. You may want to pick something that's quick to finish, or you may want to plan your drawing sessions so that you can complete a single drawing in several shorter sessions. Also, you may want to get someone to give you a hand massage before and after each drawing session.

If you're just getting started, start with something that's less complicated. Choose fantasy art that you really like drawing and keep practicing. You can choose one subject, and try not to refer to it as you draw. This will help improve your memory. If you forget the details, you can always come up with your own, since it's fantasy :)

Q: My major concern is finding time to make art. - Russell

Hi Russell. This is a very commonly asked question. If you're having a hard juggling your time, try to achieve something small first. If you still find it hard to cope, reduce your goals again and again until you're comfortable. No matter how busy you are, you can always find some time to do some sketches or doodles. Art is about a way of thinking. It's not how much time you spend. And you can always hone your thinking ability even with just a pencil and a piece of rough paper.

Darren Chow is the founder and developer of MyArtPassion.com, an online website that offers free drawing lessons, home study courses, and other drawing related resources. For more free resources like the one you've just read, please visit MyArtPassion.com for free online drawing lessons.

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