How to learn to draw architectural structures:
Light and shade

Table of contents

Light and shade

Chiaroscuro

The volumetric shape of an object can be modeled using chiaroscuro. Strong, direct light - for example, from the bright sun - creates dark, clearly defined shadows. More subdued light, or light from several sources — say, from lamps to a room — produces softer and less dark shadows.

We can observe two kinds of shadows. Those places where the light does not reach remain dark - that is, they lie in the shade. When light falls on an object on one side, this object itself casts a shadow. In addition, objects located in shadow areas can also cast a shadow, and then the artist draws shadows of different densities.

Using the acquired skills in conveying perspectives, draw a three-dimensional building. Determine the light source and how it casts shadows and highlights on your subject image. If you draw several houses at the same time, be sure to ensure that they have one light source and that light falls from the same point. Consider all the buildings not one by one, but as a single picture.

Protruding and deepened forms

This large drawing at the top of the page consists of many different shapes, large and small.

Perhaps such a picture may seem too complicated to you. And yet, with careful consideration of the different shadows, their intensity and tone, you will be able to draw the building like that. so that it is clearly visible, the cabin parts protrude, and which form niches.

Surface texture

In everyday life, we rarely notice the texture of objects - only when we touch it; but nevertheless she constantly surrounds us. Therefore, the texture plays a very important role in the drawing, conveying the nature of the objects that we want to draw: rough bricks, smooth glass, a gleam of oil paint on the window frame or fluffy clouds.

Invented texture

We draw a texture on paper, describing the tactile qualities of the surface of objects using strokes and chiaroscuro. At the same time, we use pencils, pens, charcoal, pastels, paints, etc. Sometimes the artist has to come up with a texture himself, in order to avoid repetition and leave something for the imagination of the viewer. In such cases, it is recommended to outline several bricks in the wall or several tiles of roof tiles on the roof (left). Thanks to this, you do not have to draw long and tedious every brick in the wall.

It is also useful to be interested in how other artists solve the issue of texture. This can be done by looking at drawings and paintings in art galleries and albums. By doing this. You will notice not only how they come up with a texture in order to simulate reality. Many artists create texture specifically to convey some of their emotions and moods.

Mood and texture

In addition to conveying the tactile qualities of the texture, you can come up with some of your own details if you want to convey a certain mood in the picture. In this case, you can rely on some features of paper and dyes that you use. If you wish, you will create a bright and sharp texture as in the picture of a group of houses, or a bright and open texture as in the picture of a French villa.

By experimenting with materials, you will gradually learn to create an abstract texture and use it to convey the desired emotions in your work.