BLOGART Lesson 4.

Examine "Venus at the Mirror", a study by Peter Paul Rubens the prolific 17th Century Flemish artist. His sensual works and fondness of painting full-figured women gave rise to the terms 'Rubensian' or 'Rubenesque' for plus size women. Painting female flesh was Rubens expertise using skin tone variations to highlight the the body. Rubens gave attention to the shading with varied tonal values.

Shading techniques also introduce texture to the drawing. There are a number of other methods for producing texture in the picture: in addition to choosing a suitable paper, the type of drawing material and the drawing technique will result in different textures.

Illumination is also a key element in creating an artistic piece, and the interplay of light and shadow is a valuable method for the artist.

You may now progress with your sketch to further highlight the shadows. The background shadow thrown by the body needs to be brought out. This gives the body dimension against the background. The artist needs to pay attention to the silhouette and what lies outside. In BLOGART Lesson No.1, I used the expression 'negative space' when plotting the shape. The exterior of the whole figure also has 'negative space' and is important when representing the figure too. Now is also the time to consider the form of the background. You will note that the original photo has no background so if you wish to make this picture interesting you will want to select something.

For inspiration go to an art publication or even a fashion magazine. You can select anything that takes your fancy. Below is a basic pattern which I've adopted to make my background .

Remember if you are interested in my classes I am available to give personal instruction in my Prahran studio. You can contact me on 0417 566 276.