The third exercise is to create a drawing of a model by tracing the outline (contour lines) of the model on a piece of glass that the model holds. As with the mirror drawing exercise, the artist is to keep one eye closed to better focus on the model. This quickly becomes uncomfortable and feels tedious, however, I tried to remain still and use only one continuous contour line. (but I’m pretty sure I moved slightly to one side because my husband isn’t as wide as my drawing of him conveys!)

I did fill a few of the areas with line work so the result isn’t a true contour line drawing. However, the reason for the exercise is apparent: to remember to focus on what I actually see as opposed to what my brain wants me to see. Also, it is important to focus on negative space as well as the subject.

After “tracing” my husband, he was also interested in creating a contour drawing. So I also posted his drawing as well. He was happy with his drawing but I wasn’t happy with mine. I guess art is more about the process of creating rather than the result; at least, that is what I tell myself when I create something I don’t like! : )

Glass Drawing; Exercise 3 from “Portraits in Watercolor: Part 1” by James Kirk

Glass Drawing, Exercise 3 from “Portraits in Watercolor: Part 1” by James Kirk