Personal support from Academy tutors
Question from Cecilia, Drawing Academy student
When submitting a drawing for critique, how is feedback for improvement handled?
Thank you
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How to depict tonal values
Question from Theresa Morelli
I am desperately seeking art skills as I have just discovered that I love creating art and beauty. I have been taking watercolor lessons and learning that I need to have drawing skills to continue to grow. I am having difficulty with use of value in my drawings. Can you suggest a means of developing an understanding of value and the application of it?
Are modeling apps for artists any good?
Question from Ed Gunderson, Drawing Academy student
I have been using an artist’s modeling app, “Handy” until I am more confident to tackle real humans. Your opinion on modeling apps?
I spent a fair amount of time looking for an online drawing course that wasn’t a waste of time and money. I’m not even sure how I found you, but I’m certainly glad it happened. I will save the review for when I finish, but I will say I greatly appreciate your methods and approach.
While talent is a lovely thing to have, determination wins out in the long haul. I leave you with a favorite quote: “Fascination and discipline are first cousins.”
Many thanks!
The best exercise to learn drawing in perspective
Question from Peter, Drawing Academy student
I’m a complete beginner and want to learn how to draw man-made objects in perspective like furniture, cars, buildings, etc. Could you advise what is the best exercise to begin with?
What makes my hatching cheap?
Question from Hikalu, Drawing Academy student
Hi,
I’m very much a beginner. I did learn perspective, and I am now doing practice of hatching. I may be following hatching guide or video lessons, but mine looks very cheap, especially curved lines like a sphere.
What is the difference between yours and mine? I can’t find it, and I don’t know what I should do.
I don’t think quantity of lines matter because Old Masters did excellent hatching with fewer lines. Right?
Thanks
How to improve overall drawing skills?
Question from Rebecca
“I’d really like to improve my overall skill level – particularly in the areas of portrait drawing. I’ve always loved working with color, so I usually skip to the painting stage as quickly as I can. I have really struggled to build my drawing skills, which I feel is holding me back from improving to levels I’d like to achieve.
What are the best techniques to practice and improve overall drawing skills?”
How to overcome a fear of blank paper
Question from Abiona
“Most times when I get the inspiration to draw, I usually procrastinate out of fear of the blank white paper before me. How do I overcome this artist block every time I’m faced with it?”
How to depict personality in portraits
Question from Donna Stout
For 20+ years I worked in advertising as a graphic artist and designer. Still something has been missing. I am fascinated with faces.
I want to learn to draw portraits without having to rely on a photo.
What techniques can I use to bring out the personality of a person?
Observation Skills vs. Constructive Drawing
Question from Kate
I would like to improve my life drawing skills, yet just starting with the blank page is what always scares me off.
I think that my observation skills need so much improvement.
When should I start learning perspective?
Question from William
Hello,
I’m sure the Drawing Academy content is wonderful, but I was wondering about a couple things. (I have no experience in art)
I was surprised to see perspective introduced so early in the lesson plan for month 1, and I’m wondering if 45 lessons are enough introductory instruction for such a deep subject matter.
My interest stems from looking at possibly investing time in 3D digital art, probably using a tool like Cinema4D. I realize that it’s just a tool, and the main thing is to have an excellent art foundation first or along with trying to make digital art. Another interest of mine is sculpture, but I think I could have a better chance doing something professionally with digital art than any other medium in my case, as a mid-life late-bloomer.
Cordially,
William
Anaheim, California