Rough sketches develop form and proportion, among other drawing basics.
Sketches are vital to the artistic process because they can provide a rough framework for a final product. It is not necessary for a sketch to be perfect, but it should bear some resemblance or at least inspire the finished work. Becoming familiar with sketching human figures is an essential part of learning to draw. As you practice rough sketches, you will develop your style while honing your skills in shading, proportion and line work.
Instructions
1. Focus on the subject, not your paper. If you are drawing from a real model or a photo, you should spend plenty of time studying the subject while you are drawing. As you visualize the subject, your hands will follow your mind's eye to create a representation of the model. Drawing from memory is another option, but if the subject is available it will help you in capturing the subtly of features.
2. Use circles and lines to create a sense of proportion. Instead of shaping the lines that make the figure, you can create a rough sketch by only drawing straight and curved lines. For example, draw a person with an oval for a face. Fill in the oval with curved horizontal lines where the eyes, nose and mouth should be.
3. Fill in the rough shapes with lines that provide more detail on the subject. Remember that the rough sketch does not have to be exact; just make note of any details that will better help you represent the subject.
4. Use a pencil to shade areas around the sketch to add dimension and perspective. If you have several pencils in varying thickness, these can be used to create a sense of depth. Again, a rough sketch does not have to be exact, but it can provide a model for a more detailed finish product.
