New to Drawing

[jeffallen01]

Hello everyone:

I have been sculpting for 18 years and did some quick concept sketches in the beginning, however, I have no formal art training and never really spent the time necessary honing my drawing skills since I was focusing on 3-D. I would like to get into drawing but frankly, I don't know where to begin. There are so many books on illustrating and videos and tapes and pencils and pads, et cetera.

That said, I am in the process of downloading Andrew Loomis's texts online. I heard some good things about his books. I want to work on the human form, portraits, hands, etc. for now, however, I am interested in learning to draw anything and everything eventually. For now though I am most interested in doing concept sketches and drawings for my portfolio and as preliminary designs for my character sculptures.

Can anyone recommend any other books, videos, or DVD's for learning the basics, aside from Loomis's, and what kind of pad and pencils, erasers, et cetera should I begin working with?

Thanks,

Jeff

[nafa]

There are many great free tutorial sites for drawing beginners. For starters, I consider this one most informative and easy to follow:

http://www.sierravista.wuhsd.k12.ca.us/basicart/

[malachi]

Go down to your local community center and check for life drawing groups. I find inspiration and techniques by talking to fellow artists at these sessions. Usually run a few hours for $15-$20.

[BlackGuy]

I just want to let you know that your years of sculpting will help you a LOT with drawing. Since you have so much experience constructing things three dimensionally, you can use that experience to give your drawings a sense of form and, well three dimensionality. These are two of the most essential parts of a drawing.

[jeffallen01]

Thanks for the responses, everyone. I appreciate the feedback. And thanks for that link. I checked it out -- great site!

Jeff