Basic How To Draw and Paint Info: Beginning 1

When I first started drawing and painting, I was desperate for any information that I could find. Since I am a self-taught artist, I thought I would share my information here on my blog, you never know, it just might inspire and encourage someone to develop their artistic gifts.

When I first started, I wanted to start painting and create my masterpiece immediately. But, I did some research in art books that stressed drawing, drawing, drawing. So I focused in on drawing and it is the best thing I have ever done to date, that has helped my art. Even today, I always go through a process of drawing before I even think about painting.

As I progress, I will explain the steps in drawing and the quicker way for those who do not want to take the time to draw.

To begin: Why not start with a portrait of a child, nothing could be simpler. Whether you want to be a serious artist or you just want another hobby, all you need is a paper and pencil. If you want to get the feel of being an artist right away, you can always purchase art paper such as newsprint or art drawing paper and artist's pencil.

Today's assignment: Find a picture of a little loved one, your child, niece, nephew, sister, etc.

Simply draw the outline of the face, hair and neck on your sheet of paper.

If you think it will be hard to draw the picture simply by observing it, then you can always use tracing paper.

1. Simply lay the tracing paper over the photo, and trace the face, hair and neck (we'll call this the first side).

2. Then turn the paper over and draw the lines of the traced image on the back of the paper. (This is the second side).

3. Now lay the tracing paper (first side up) over your art paper (second side -or back- should be touching the art paper) and draw over your original tracing lines. The lines on the back of your tracing paper will be transferred onto your art paper.

For a more easier tracing method, you can always purchase graphite paper for tracing your image. This method is okay, but occasionally the graphite from the back of the paper will smudge on the art paper and you will find yourself erasing a lot of unnecessary graphite that might affect the way your pastels, colored pencils, or paint goes on your paper or canvas.