Grade 10 Art - Day 8

Drawing with Charcoal Pencil and its Derivatives (Such as Conté)

Having studied charcoal and its properties, we now move to charcoal pencils and conté. Here are some important facts:

• it is more intensely black
• it is more stable than charcoal and subsequently binds better to the paper
• it is better for tonal variety and transition of value

The methods for handling the pencils and conté vary, from a typical pencil hold, to the between fingers approach that we learned in the charcoal section, thus removing the tendency for your palm to smudge the medium.  

The following are techniques for application:

A. Academic Technique - think "perfectly blended (use a stump or tortillon)"

B. Unblended Technique - think "raw, unblended"

C. Combined Technique - think "blending reinforces the raw strokes and lines"

Constantly scan between your drawing and your subject to avoid this list of things not to do!

1) Do not neglect the fine details

2) Strive for detail of form and shading

3) Do not neglect tonal gradations

Stages of Completion 

Use Charcoal in stages 1 - 3

1) Draw a rough and initial sketch, ensuring that proportions are accurate and your early composition is balanced.

2) Fill in initial shadows

3) Begin your preliminary blending and value transitions

4) Use a kleenex to dab or wipe away charcoal dust to reveal your base drawing

5) Using your charcoal pencil or conté, draw your final version of your drawing

6) Complete your blending and final shading. At this stage, employ your stump and eraser for assistance when necessary.

7) Finished drawing and reflection.  It is at this point that your should really compare between what you have completed and the actual values and form of your subject.  Make minor adjustments and enjoy your work!

Inspired by Jose M. Parramon`s "How to Draw with Charcoal, Sanguine and Chalk"