Simplified Shapes
You can also invent any simplified shape. A single shape can include more than one area of a subject, and can overlap another shape.
Always begin by picturing the largest possible shape. The size you make it will set the size for the entire drawing. Then, add other shapes to it.
Rule:
You can begin any drawing with simple shapes.
Picturing simple shapes is highly creative and immediately makes you feel in control of your work. However, the shapes won’t always leap out from your subject. Sometimes you must stretch your imagination and piece them together from scant clues.
Exercise
1. Along with your Instructor, notice the finished drawing of the dog. Invent another simple shape I could have used.
2. Choose a setup from the gallery below, then combine various objects with other objects and create five different simple shapes on your paper.
3. Choose another setup and do the following:
a. Picture a big simple shape out of part of it, and lightly sketch it.
b. Create some smaller shapes that fit with the large one and draw those.
c. Complete a fairly accurate drawing of the real subject within five minutes, using the shapes as a guide
d. Practice starting some drawings of setups using simple shapes. Spend only a few minutes on each drawing.
4. Choose a set up of 5 or more simple props and do the following:
a. Invent two big simple shapes out of parts of it. Sketch in the biggest one first, then the other.
b. Invent and sketch in some smaller shapes.
c. Point out to the instructor which simple shapes you used. Clear up any questions.
