The Essence of Drawing: Understanding the Process
Drawing, at its core, is an expression of creativity and individuality. It is a medium that allows artists to communicate their thoughts, feelings, and perspectives in ways words often fail. However, the emphasis on the final piece often overshadows the essential part of drawing – the process.
Related: "You may be missing the point" of drawing
The process is where you learn, explore, and grow. It is a journey filled with discovery, full of trial and error, and abundant with personal growth. It allows the artist to learn from their mistakes, experiment with styles and techniques, and cultivate their unique artistic voice.
Learning to Value the Process Over the Product
In drawing, every stroke of your pencil or brush lays the foundation for your artistic development. These strokes are not just about creating an image but learning the mechanics of shape, form, and light. They also involve developing an understanding of how to transcribe the emotions or ideas inside your mind onto a canvas.
This progression is where the artist truly develops, not just in their technical abilities but also their capacity to observe, interpret, and reflect on the world around them. Every error is an opportunity to learn, every revision a chance to see things from a new perspective, and every seemingly 'failed' piece a testament to growth and perseverance.
The Psychological Benefits of the Drawing Process
Beyond the technical and artistic development, the process of drawing also offers significant psychological benefits. Studies have consistently shown that engaging in the act of drawing can help to reduce stress, increase focus and improve memory.
When artists focus on the process rather than the final product, they're able to enter a state of flow — a psychological state of complete immersion and enjoyment in an activity. This state of flow has been linked to higher levels of happiness and satisfaction, showcasing the inherent value found within the process of drawing.
Embrace the Journey
Instead of focusing on producing a perfect result, embracing the journey that drawing offers can lead to a much richer artistic experience. It's important to remember that every line, every stroke, and every seemingly 'wrong' sketch is a step in your journey towards growth and self-expression.
So, the next time you pick up your sketchpad and pencil, remember that drawing is much more than the final piece that emerges on the page. It's about the journey you take, the skills you hone, and the joy you find in every moment of the process.
Remember to embrace the imperfections, enjoy the act of creation, and most importantly, keep drawing!
Related Class: Drawing Faces with France Van Stone
Sharpen your drawing skills, one face at a time, with crosshatching virtuoso France Van Stone as your guide. Learn more.