Contour Drawing Techniques: 3 Practical Examples

Explore three engaging examples of contour drawing techniques for human figures. Perfect for beginners and art enthusiasts!
By Taylor

Introduction to Contour Drawing

Contour drawing is a fundamental technique in art that focuses on capturing the outline and form of a subject. It allows artists to develop their observational skills and understand the proportions and shapes of human figures. By emphasizing the contours, or outlines, of the subject, you can create expressive and dynamic sketches. In this guide, we’ll explore three diverse examples of contour drawing of human figures, each with its unique context and approach.

Example 1: Gesture Drawing of a Dancer

In this example, we’ll focus on capturing the fluidity and movement of a dancer. Gesture drawing is a technique that emphasizes the dynamic poses and energy of the figure rather than precise details. Set up a timer for 1-5 minutes for each pose to encourage quick sketching.

  1. Choose a Reference: Find a video or images of a dancer in motion. You can also ask a friend to pose for you.
  2. Begin with Light Lines: Start with light, flowing lines to capture the overall shape and movement of the dancer’s pose.
  3. Focus on the Contours: As you sketch, pay attention to the curves and angles of the body. Capture the essence of the pose rather than getting bogged down in details.
  4. Use Continuous Lines: Try to draw without lifting your pencil, allowing your hand to flow with the movement of the dancer.
  5. Refine the Drawing: After the timer goes off, look at your sketch and enhance any areas that need more definition, but keep it loose and expressive.

Notes

  • Variations: Experiment with different time limits and poses to challenge yourself. You can also try contour drawing from different perspectives (e.g., below, above).
  • This exercise is great for warming up before diving into more detailed work.

Example 2: Portrait Contour Drawing

In this example, we’ll create a detailed contour drawing of a human face. This technique helps you focus on the distinct features and proportions of the face, enhancing your ability to draw portraits accurately.

  1. Select a Reference Photo: Choose a clear photo of a face. It can be a friend, family member, or even a celebrity.
  2. Start with the Outline: Begin by lightly sketching the outer shape of the head, noting the jawline, forehead, and chin.
  3. Capture Key Features: Move to the eyes, nose, and mouth. Focus on the contours and shapes of these features, considering their relative positions.
  4. Use a Single Line: Try to create the entire face using one continuous line, linking features together as you go. This approach helps develop your hand-eye coordination.
  5. Add Details/Shadowing: Once the basic outline is done, add light shading to create depth, but keep the focus on the contours.

Notes

  • Variations: You can switch to drawing in a different style, such as abstract or exaggerated features, to have fun with proportions.
  • This exercise is excellent for improving your understanding of facial anatomy.

Example 3: Group Contour Drawing in a Public Space

In this example, we’ll engage in contour drawing in a public setting, such as a café or park. This technique encourages you to observe and capture the interactions and relationships between multiple figures in a lively environment.

  1. Choose Your Location: Find a spot where people are moving or interacting, like a café or a park.
  2. Select Your Subjects: Pick a group of people to draw. Focus on their interactions rather than individual details.
  3. Quick Sketching: Use quick, sweeping lines to represent the outlines of the figures. Capture their poses and how they relate to one another in space.
  4. Layer Figures: As you sketch, don’t worry about overlapping lines. Allow figures to intertwine, creating a sense of movement and context.
  5. Review and Enhance: After your session, review your sketches and enhance areas where you feel more detail is needed, while keeping the overall flow intact.

Notes

  • Variations: Try drawing on different types of paper or using colored pencils to add a new dimension to your contour drawings.
  • This exercise promotes a sense of observation and quick thinking, allowing you to capture life as it unfolds.

By practicing these examples of contour drawing of human figures, you’ll enhance your observation skills and develop a deeper understanding of form and movement in art. Happy drawing!