Today we will begin a reverse drawing project that focuses on highlights instead of shadows. We will arrange bones into an interesting composition, then photograph the bones, paying attention to negative space and the rule of thirds. We will then work from this reference photo, using white charcoal to draw bones on black paper.
Project Requirements:
- contains 3-4 bones
- composition contains a balance of positive and negative space and uses the rule of thirds to create a clear focal point
- drawing uses strong highlights and shadows to create the illusion of form
- displays mastery of reverse shading with white charcoal on black paper
Here is an example of a finished project:
Today’s essential question: How can I use the rule of thirds to make a visually interesting composition?
Rule of Thirds
To apply the rule of thirds to your photograph, break an image down into thirds (both horizontally and vertically) so that you have 9 parts. Place points of interest in the intersections or along the lines to create a more balanced and visually interesting photo. Studies have shown that people’s eyes usually go to one of the intersection points rather than the center of the shot. When we use the rule of thirds, we make the way people naturally view images work for us rather than against us.
Today we will:
- Arrange 3-4 bones into an interesting composition, and photograph this composition from multiple viewpoints
- Convert your photographs to grayscale mode in Photoshop. (Image -> Mode -> Grayscale)
- Crop your image so it is 18 x 24 inches or 24 x 18 inches
- Post the photo you would like me to print to your blog. Describe how you have utilized both the rule of thirds and balanced positive and negative space to create an interesting composition.
- Create a still life with a handful of marshmallows, and draw the still life with white charcoal on black paper
Example of a good reference photo:
Example of how much detail I am looking for in your marshmallow still life:
SOTA Foundations 2 