The Art of Tone: Get Graphic in Graphite with Karl Staub
This lesson is all about structure and contrast—about seeing light, midtone, and shadow as distinct shapes to be mapped, hatched, and carved into the page.
This lesson (62 mins) is all about structure and contrast—about seeing light, midtone, and shadow not as vague zones to be blended, but as distinct shapes to be mapped, hatched, and carved into the page.
Artist Karl Staub walks you through a methodical yet expressive approach to portrait drawing using tonal mapping and crosshatching.
Starting with a simple grid and pencil, you’ll learn how to break down complex shading into geometric areas of value, then layer in tone using directional strokes with increasing pressure and softness, from HB to 8B.
The process is both analytical and creative, the results striking, graphic, and full of personality. For those who normally avoid hands, glasses, or tight rendering, this lesson pushes comfort zones in the best way.
The act of building the drawing line by line becomes meditative—what one student called “hypnotic.” Expect to slow down, stay present, and see your portrait come to life through rhythm and repetition.
Ready to get graphic in graphite? Let's get started!
