Draw a Powerful Pencil Profile with Darren Wells
Your drawing should be in a "constant state of flux," says Darren.
Embrace the iconic power of the profile with Sydney-based artist Darren Wells.
In this lesson (51 mins), you’ll learn how to find the "push and pull" of a portrait, balancing clean, foundational lines with a loose, textured style that prioritizes the spirit of the subject over technical mastery.
Darren guides you through a process where every mark on the page is a part of the story. Rather than fearing mistakes, you’ll learn to treat your eraser as a drawing tool and your "scribbly" lines as landmarks that help you find your way.
In this session, you will explore:
- Mapping the Profile: Using simple circles and straight-line angles to block out the forehead, nose, and jawline.
- The Anatomy of Hair: Understanding how the hair sits like a "helmet" above the skull and using directional shading to suggest movement.
- Landmarks and Proportions: Learning how to line up the ear with the brow and nose to ensure anatomical correctness without getting bogged down in detail.
- Building Tonal Range: Using a blending stump and various pencil weights to create depth, from the darkest darks behind the head to subtle shadows cast by accessories.
As Darren says, your drawing should be in a "constant state of flux". So get ready to embrace texture, take big swings with your decisions, and enjoy the ride. Let's get started!
