Wheat Fields. Ben Shahn. Wheat Field, 1958.
There are many ways to get ideas for artwork. Try drawing natural things you see outside. This is a great way to get ideas.
Ben Shahn, an American artist, created this work of art. He drew delicate lines of wheat stalks. He also drew lines to show the shape and texture of the wheat tassels.
Artists learn to draw many kinds of lines. Some artists draw scenes of the outdoors. In the drawing above, look for different kinds of lines that suggest textures and patterns.
Charles E. Burchfield (1893-1967), Thistles, 1961; pressed charcoal on tracing paper, 17 x 21 inches; Gift of the Burchfield Foundation, 1975
Charles Burchfield, an American artist, drew lines to show that thistles are prickly and sharp. Can you describe some of the lines he used?
Leonardo da Vinci, Oak Leaves with Acorns and Dyers’ Greenwood. 1505. The Royal Library, Windsor, England.
Leonardo da Vinci was a famous artist, scientist and inventor. He lived in Italy. What lines do you see in his drawing? How did he draw shadows?
Project – Drawing from Nature: What Lines Can Show
*This project can be completed on paper or on iPad.
1. SKETCH a branch, leaf, twig or something else from nature. CHOOSE A NATURAL OBJECT THAT YOU CAN HOLD AND TOUCH.
2. Draw the main shapes very lightly, then draw lines to show the edges and details.
3. Don’t forget to use value to show lightness and darkness such as shadows.
4. Use your pencil in different ways. Create lines that show whether your object is delicate or strong, rough or smooth, flat or round.
5. You may add color to this project as well if you wish, but remember to focus of this project is lines, patterns and value of your natural object.
Here is a sample project drawn by a 5th Grade student.
Notice the detail and attention to value.
Drawing by Alex B. Grade 5. 2013.
Extensions
Further practice: Create other drawing based on careful observation. Try a different type of media. Use chalk, marker, crayon or charcoal. Notice how different media produce different results. What is your favorite? What is your least favorite? Why?
Art, Language Arts, Science: Try transforming your notes from a different subject into pictures. Drawing is a way of making visual notes.