HOW-TO

Drawn from Life: Tips and Tricks for Contemporary Life Drawing

by Helen Birch
Chronicle. Jul. 2017. 208p. illus. ISBN 9781452158785. pap. $18.95; ebk. ISBN 9781452166872. ART INSTRUCTION
COPY ISBN
Doling out technique instruction and visual inspiration in equal parts, Birch's (Just Add Watercolor) half-sized, horizontally formatted guide helps readers tap into rich traditions of life drawing, demonstrating how to use everyday people as muses. Not necessarily intended to be read linearly, it is full of exercises that apply different approaches and styles. Each consists simply of a page of explanation, exemplified on the next page by successfully completed drawings. Some digital media is included, as is a very brief section on tools and materials. A handy visual index showing a thumbnail of each project starts off the book.
VERDICT A great way for beginning- and intermediate-level artists to dip a toe into figure drawing without attending art school.
Reviewed by Staff , Jul 01, 2017
Comment Policy:
  • Be respectful, and do not attack the author, people mentioned in the article, or other commenters. Take on the idea, not the messenger.
  • Don't use obscene, profane, or vulgar language.
  • Stay on point. Comments that stray from the topic at hand may be deleted.
  • Comments may be republished in print, online, or other forms of media.
  • If you see something objectionable, please let us know. Once a comment has been flagged, a staff member will investigate.

RELATED 

NONFICTION

Knitting with Dog Hair: Better a Sweater from a Dog You Know and Love Than from a Sheep You’ll Never Meet
by Crolius, Kendall
NONFICTION

Wonderful World of Paper-Pieced Quilt Blocks: 30 Nature-Inspired Designs and a Beautiful Sampler
by Taylor, Liza
NONFICTION

Kantha: Sustainable Textiles and Mindful Making
by Kaul, Ekta
NONFICTION

Simple Starter Crochet Projects: 3 Easy Patterns for Your First Hat, Scarf, and Cushion
by Meldrum, Carol
NONFICTION

Metallic Watercolor: Create Shimmering Artwork with Metallic Paints
by Götz, Elisabeth
NONFICTION

Starter Guide to Tunisian Crochet: Expand Your Crafting Skills with 16 Must-Make Projects
by Temple, Mary Beth
More
ALREADY A SUBSCRIBER?

We are currently offering this content for free. Sign up now to activate your personal profile, where you can save articles for future viewing

ALREADY A SUBSCRIBER?