new to the forum

[erbilac]

Hey, I apologize if this isn't the right place to post.

I just registered for this forum, I'm actually interested in figure drawing and architecture drawing but never had the formal training. Can any of you recommend some good books for each of the subjects? I use to draw still-life when I was young, never had that amazing creativity. What do you guys do for inspirations? thanks

[Balsamic]

For inspiration, I read this forum.

Seriously, this place is a goldmine. People pay premium for the information in alot of the posts here. I haven't been here that long, but joining this place was the best thing I've ever done for myself. It's my favorite place on the internet.

When you're feeling down, just read through some of the threads in the art techniques forum. I've been doing that the past few days and I've noticed huge changes in my art.

[arttorney]

The name Loomis comes up over and over again in discussions on anatomy books. That might be a good place to start.

Since you are also interested in architecture, there's a book by Christopher Hart called Drawing Cutting Edge Comics that contains a summary chapter on anatomy and a summary chapter on Perspective; plus lots of eyes, hands, head tilts, and feet to practice from. It shows the development of a character from pencils to inks, then blocked in colors to highlights and details. It discusses how to find your personal style, and gives tips on how to avoid being boring. You may find that one interesting.

The best fundamental manual on the ways of traditional media drawing and painting that I have seen is "Artist's Manual" Edited by Angela Gair and published by Chronicle Books of San Francisco. It does not discuss sculpture but is otherwise kind of comprehensive.

For inspiration, I open my eyes and look at everything that is to be seen out there. Trees are not just one color. Faces are not just one color. Certain shapes are repeated all over. Get a little sketch book and draw the things you see and take notes if necessary in the margins. The more of this you do, the closer you get to the day you can simply draw amazing details right out of your head. It's a matter of practice, just like golf or calculus. Paint outdoors. Most of the people you meet that way will think you are cool.

[foggle]

As balsamic said - this place is a goldmine. Since joining, (and I spent many weeks lurking, just reading through all the material and checking out the art) Ive learnt a huge amount, and have gained the motivation to seriously get back into drawing at a point when my enthusiasm was starting to dwindle. The Loomis books are good, and if you hunt around you can find them for free, though I found when trying to learn from them that i would end up copying him lots, but not actually improving. I can't really help you with the architecture side, as its not something I've ever done much of (should definitely start though.)

The main thing to start with though if you're interested in figure drawing is learning the anatomy, a lot of that you can do from the internet - pictures, articles, etc. But if you want a good book, I would suggest "anatomy for the artist" by sarah simblet. While it's not really the sort of book that will start producing results instantly, its an excellent reference guide, and with very lucid, in-depth writing to go with the equally in-depth and thorough drawings.
On the other hand, going back to Loomis - that sort of thing is much better at teaching you how to compose a good picture, and some of the general tips and tricks of the trade.

Inspiration wise, again, this site is a vast resource. Check out some of the 4 and 5 star sketchbooks, and especially the exclusive ones in the "members area";) :rolleyes:
Also, look at some of the old masters, and spend a time analysing them, it'll improve your appreciation of art history and give you a great insight into how they were made (not to mention the obvious inspiration boost)

[Balsamic]

Also, pick up an artistic anatomy book, I really like Joseph Shepphard's.

I've found when I can't think of anything, I draw the human figure. You can never be too good at drawing figures, there's always room for improvement. The human figure can relate to pretty much anything and everything you draw.

EDIT: Hah, I should have read the above reply before I posted again. Now you have two anatomy books to look into :P.

[erbilac]

awesome, thanks a lot for the posts people. i really appreciate it, i'll look into that stuff.

[Sirkenneth]

Its not the best-but its a cool way to look at anatomy but burne hogarth is great. Also getting the "anatomy for the artist" books are great for refrence and other stuff. For the best info--draw living people. measure and draw people. I just got into a life drawing class at the local community college and its amazing. i gotta leave for it right now actaully!!! yay! good luck!