Introduction to Contour Drawing in Landscape Art

Contour drawing is a technique where artists capture the outline of a subject, emphasizing its shape and form. This method is especially effective in landscape art, allowing you to focus on the essential structure of natural elements without getting bogged down in intricate details. Below are three diverse examples of contour drawing in landscape art that you can try out!

1. Mountain Range Contour Drawing

Context

This technique is great for beginners wanting to depict the grandeur of mountain landscapes while honing their observation skills.

Start by finding a reference photo of mountains. Use a pencil to lightly sketch the main outlines, focusing on the peaks and valleys. Avoid adding details—just capture the overall shape!

As you draw, pay attention to how the mountains interact with the sky and surrounding elements. This will help create a more cohesive composition. Once satisfied with the outlines, consider going over your lines with a darker pencil or pen to emphasize the contours.

Notes

• You can use different line weights to create depth; thicker lines can represent closer mountains while thinner lines can indicate distant ones.
• Experiment with adding simple shapes for trees or clouds to enhance your landscape without complicating the contour.

2. Tree Line Contour Drawing

Context

This example allows you to practice contour drawing while focusing on the organic shapes of trees, perfect for both beginners and experienced artists.

Find a scenic view with a distinct tree line—perhaps at a park or forest. Start by observing the silhouettes of the trees against the sky. Using a pencil, draw the outer shape of the tree line, capturing the varying heights and widths of each tree.

As you work, try to vary your line pressure to create a more natural look. You can also incorporate overlapping trees by drawing them with lighter lines first and then refining with darker lines.

Notes

• Consider the season; different trees have different shapes and densities depending on whether it’s summer or winter.
• Play around with negative space—leaving the background blank can enhance the contour of the trees.

3. Coastal Landscape Contour Drawing

Context

This technique is ideal for capturing dynamic coastal scenes, allowing you to explore both land and sea.

Choose a reference image of a coastline with cliffs, waves, and perhaps some vegetation. Begin by outlining the cliffs and the horizon line, keeping your pencil light. Focus on the fluidity of the waves and how they crash against the shore.

Incorporate the contours of any rocks or plants along the coastline. You can create energy in your drawing by varying the direction of your lines to suggest movement in the waves.

Notes

• Experiment by adding different textures to represent water and rocks; for example, use wavy lines for water and jagged lines for rocky surfaces.
• This is a great opportunity to play with perspective; include foreground elements like shells or sand to create depth.

By practicing these examples of contour drawing in landscape art, you’ll not only improve your skills but also develop a deeper appreciation for the beauty in the natural world. Happy drawing!