Charcoal After Sargent
 

I did this 24" x 18" charcoal drawing in a sketch class in little over two hours. As a 10 x 8 photo reference, I used one of my favorites by Sargent. The process involves beginning the sketch upside down to capture big shapes and values without thinking about what the subject actually is. Then we rotate our paper and reference to a side view, and finally - in the last 15 minutes - we are straight on . Surpising results are much more accurate than I ever imaged. The genius of Sargent's use of values and his edge control never cease to amaze me.

Jeaninie,

Yes, it is a great excercise for the reason you stated: to get the big shapes down first - it's something I am ALWAYS struggling with - but it does get easier with endless amounts of practice. (I've wanted to try the upside-down approach with life drawing....but it's hard to find a model willing to pose standing on their head).

I just want to say how impressive your drawing is. You have the most exquisite, gorgeous passages - especially that dress. It is captivating. Bravo.

David