Drawn from Observation

 

Drawn from Observation Life can be studied as a stand-alone course and it is a key course for the Certificate of Higher Education in Art and Design at Aberystwyth University.

Key Facts

 

Language: English

Duration: TBC

Number of Credits: 10

Tutor: Adam Blackburn

Learning Method: Online

Level: This module is at CQFW Level 4

Module Code: XK14510

Fee: £130.00 - Fee Waiver Scheme available 

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Overview

The quickest way to accelerate drawing skills is to learn to draw from observation. This module will teach you the art of looking. Through online learning units and tutorial support, the module will cover the topics of perspective, composition, tonal drawing, chiaroscuro, the fixed measurement, negative spaces, mark-making and foreshortening. You will also be encouraged to evaluate your work through self-criticism. Units will be constructed and delivered to help you develop confidence and skills with plenty of time made available for self-reflection and home-study projects. The aim is to give you the skills and practice to start a drawing but not necessarily produce finished works. You will work with biro, pencil, pen, brush, conte and charcoal.

Programme

This module aims to develop observational drawing skills that underpin all drawing and build confidence and understanding in a range of drawing principles and topics. By being taught to evaluate and criticize their work, students will be encouraged to consider and devise their own drawing style and approach to drawing.

Unit One - Introduction to Module.

Unit Two - Tonal Drawing and Chiaroscuro.

Unit Three - Mark-making.

Unit Four - Composition and Mapping.

Unit Five - Perspective and Foreshortening.

Unit Six - Fixed Measurement.

Unit Seven - Negative Space.

Learning Outcomes

On completion of this module, students should be able to:  

  1. Make drawings from life demonstrating some measuring of proportion, composition, mark-making, chiaroscuro and foreshortening and show a knowledge of a range of different drawing media.
  2. Use line and tone effectively to represent form and demonstrate a basic knowledge of various mark-making procedures.
  3. Demonstrate an awareness of the significance of observational drawing to historical and contemporary art practice within their visual diary.

Assessments

  1. Visual diary (100%)

Reading Suggestions

  • Line Form Colour, Ellsworth Kelly. University of Chicago Press, 1999
  • Pedogeological Sketchbook, Paul Klee. Faber & Faber; Main edition. 1973
  • Seeing and Observation. Simpson, Ian. London: A&C Black, 1992.
  • Drawing on the Right Side of the Brain. The definitive, 4th edition, expandedand updated. Edwards, Betty. Souvenir Press, 2013. Print.
  • Sketch Your World: Essential Techniques for Drawing on Location. Hobbs,James. London: Apple Press, 2014.
  • Contemporary Drawing: Key Concepts and Techniques. Davidson, Margaret.New York: Watson-Guptill, 2011.
  • Drawing: Mastering the Language of Visual Expression. Micklewright, Keith.London: Laurence King Publishing, 2005

Entry Requirements

This course is for everyone. No previous experience is needed and there are no formal entry requirements.

What Do I Need?

A list of materials, not included in the course fees, will be available prior to the course start date.