Drawing the Human Figure 2

For this method the artist begins by layering the paper with the charcoal powder saved from working with vine charcoal. Using a shamy cloth the powder is gently rubbed into the paper to about a 5-7 on the gray scale. Then using the shamy or kneeded gum, the powder is lifted off the page to create the figure. When the values and forms start taking shape, vine charcoal can then be used sparingly to help define the various masses and outlines. This is more of a subtractive method of drawing and helps the artist use value to create form. As with all drawing, fingers should never be used as the natural oils on the skin affect the surface.