How to Draw: What is Drawing?

How to Draw

Drawing is a basic skill for artists

What is Drawing?

Drawing can be described as a depiction of shapes and forms on a surface chiefly by means of lines. A major fine art technique in itself, drawing is the basis of all pictorial representation, and an early step in most art activities. Though an integral part of most painting, drawing is generally differentiated from painting by the dominance of line. The artist's choices of drawing media tend to determine the nature of a drawing.

There are many sorts of drawing techniques, varying according to the effect the artist wants. A preliminary technique to some other medium or form — although distinct from the final product, such drawings also have intrinsic artistic value. Preliminary drawings include various exercises (e.g., contour drawing, gesture drawing, figure drawing, drawing from the flat), as well as sketches, studies, and cartoons.

Drawing has been highly appreciated since the Renaissance, largely because it implies spontaneity and an embodiment of the artist's ideas. Spontaneity has always been used to particular advantage in caricature.

This unit will provide an introduction to many aspects of drawing and hopefully you will find techniques that you enjoy!