Monday, June 8, 2015

Finding The Best Charcoal Drawing Artists

By Elaine Guthrie


The earliest humans created drawings on the walls of caves using charred sticks. Since ancient times, charcoals have been used to create drawings. However, prior to and even during the Renaissance, they were used mostly to create preliminary sketches. The medium only developed in its own right once a way was discovered to prevent drawings from degrading over time. Once this technique was discovered, charcoal drawing artists came into their own and started producing amazing works.

Stylistically, this is a medium that encourages visual boldness and allows emotions to be freely expressed. Rubbing, lifting and hatching are just some of the more popular techniques used. Hatching is the use of short, parallel lines while cross-hatching is the use of two sets of lines to create variations in tone and shadows. Rubbing is used to darken an area and lifting with an eraser creates highlights.

Looking at the portfolio of a particular artist is the best way to find out more about their level of skill and the style they prefer. Some enjoy working with pastel colored charcoals, rather than just using black or silver. Others love the moody, atmospheric effects that can be created by smearing or smudging.

Harder charcoals are used in the creation of light lines and the softer ones can be blended or used to make deep lines. An artist will usually work with a paper with a heavier tooth that is rougher and holds particles better. However, the type of paper used depends very much on the way the artist prefers to work. It must be strong so that it does not tear with application.

The most realistic portraits can be created using this medium. The length of time taken depends on the size of the drawing, and on the degree of difficulty of the subject. Some can take many hours. To get the desired level of realistic detail, using a live model is very time consuming for both the model and the artist. Most prefer to draw from pictures, taking time to capture all the fine lines and facial expression of the subject as realistically as possible.

When commissioning a portrait in this medium, prices may vary considerably. An established artist who has already built up a reputation and worked for many clients will obviously charge more. Other factors like size and the number of subjects also influence the price. A simple head and shoulders portrait may be relatively inexpensive but a full body one with a background will be more pricey.

Ordering online is a fairly simple process. A photograph is submitted to the artist who will determine whether the quality is acceptable. A more suitable one may be requested. It is important to know about how the item will be shipped and any other terms and conditions relating to the purchase. A deposit may have to be paid before any work commences.

The internet offers a simple way to order drawings like this today. The versatility of this medium allows an artist to produce a variety of effects and so it is a favorite, offering many options for purchase. A simple head and shoulders portrait makes an unforgettable gift for a special birthday or a memorable keepsake that can be passed down through generations.




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