As an experienced art writer and creative consultant, I’ve had the pleasure of exploring a wide range of artistic techniques and approaches over the years. In our 15 years installing… One area that has particularly intrigued me is the intersection of architectural sketching and expressive, unconventional use of graphite. In this article, we’ll delve into innovative perspectives and methods for capturing the essence of buildings and cityscapes through the versatile medium of pencil.
Embracing the Unexpected
Graphite, with its diverse range of tones and textures, has long been a staple for architects and artists alike. However, by breaking away from traditional architectural rendering techniques, we can unleash a new level of creativity and personal expression. One such approach is the dynamic combination of ink and graphite, as showcased by artist Liz Steel on her Pencil and Paint Muse blog.
Steel, a former architect, discovered the power of this unconventional pairing when she only had a limited time to sketch. “I grabbed my favourite Sailor Fude de Mannen pen (55 degree nib) and started doing a quick line drawing,” she explains. “As I was finishing my drawing, I felt that I needed a little tone, so I added some graphite.” The result was a series of captivating sketches that blended the precision of ink with the depth and nuance of graphite.
This exploration of mixed media has led Steel to further experiment with water-soluble graphite pencils, such as the Bruynzeel Aqua Sketch Soft. The ability to dissolve the graphite with water opens up a world of expressive possibilities, allowing for the creation of rich, inky tones and seamless integration with the initial ink lines.
Mastering Architectural Sketching
While embracing unconventional approaches, it’s essential to have a solid foundation in architectural sketching techniques. As a former architect herself, Steel has a unique perspective on the skills needed to capture the essence of buildings effectively.
One of the core concepts she emphasizes is spatial awareness. “Most of you know that I’m an architect by profession and therefore I have a very good knowledge of buildings and how they are put together,” she shares. This intimate understanding of form and structure allows Steel to simplify complex structures and render them in a compelling, cohesive manner.
Another crucial element is perspective rendering. Steel’s architectural training equipped her with the ability to set up technical perspective drawings, a skill that translates seamlessly to her on-location sketching. However, she has also developed a “vanishing point-less approach” that allows for more free-flowing, expressive compositions.
Equally important is the ability to measure and proportion elements accurately. Steel’s SketchingNow Buildings course delves deeply into these foundational techniques, equipping aspiring artists with the tools to create convincing, well-proportioned architectural sketches.
Embracing the Creative Process
While technical mastery is essential, the true magic often happens when we embrace the creative process and allow for spontaneity and exploration. Steel’s approach to sketching architecture is a testament to this, as she shares her journey of discovery.
“I knew how to draw ‘imagined’ buildings using architectural design drawing techniques, but I didn’t know how to draw what was in front of me,” she admits. “So like everyone else who learns to draw, I needed to learn to see.”
This process of learning to observe and translate the three-dimensional world onto the two-dimensional page is a common challenge faced by many artists. However, Steel’s willingness to experiment and evolve her techniques has been instrumental in helping her develop a unique, expressive style.
One of the key elements of her approach is the ability to simplify and abstract. “I wanted them to capture the thrill of discovery I had when I was designing,” she explains, referring to her architectural sketches. By focusing on the essence of a building, rather than every minute detail, Steel’s drawings convey a sense of energy and immediacy.
Practical Techniques for Expressive Sketching
So, how can aspiring artists and architects incorporate these innovative approaches into their own practice? Steel offers several practical techniques to help unlock your creative potential:
-
Experiment with Mixed Media: Embrace the unexpected by combining graphite with other mediums, such as ink, watercolor, or even water-soluble graphite pencils. Explore the interplay of different materials and the unique textures and effects they can create.
-
Prioritize Composition and Perspective: Develop a keen eye for proportions and spatial relationships. Experiment with unconventional viewpoints and framing to add dynamism and visual interest to your sketches.
-
Embrace Simplification and Abstraction: Focus on capturing the essence of a building or cityscape, rather than getting bogged down in every intricate detail. Allow your sketches to be expressive and interpretive, rather than strictly realistic.
-
Practice, Practice, Practice: Consistent, regular sketching is the key to honing your skills and developing a unique visual language. Seek out opportunities to sketch on location, capturing the energy and spontaneity of the moment.
-
Cultivate Curiosity and Observation: Approach your architectural subjects with a sense of wonder and exploration. Observe the world around you with a critical eye, seeking out interesting angles, textures, and details that can inspire your creative process.
By embracing these unconventional perspectives and innovative approaches, aspiring artists and architects can unlock a new level of expression and personal style in their architectural sketching. As Liz Steel so eloquently states, “I wanted them to capture the thrill of discovery I had when I was designing.” Through the power of expressive graphite, we can do just that.
Tip: Experiment with different media to discover your unique style