Module 1: History of Figure Drawing
Welcome to your Figure Drawing 101 course! To understand what a figure drawing should look like, we will look at historical and contemporary examples of figures. As you look at the artwork in this module, please work on developing your preferences. The appeal of artmaking is individuality, expression, and variation.
Module 1 Objectives
1) Explore the evolution of figure drawing across history, from Paleolithic art to contemporary works, identifying key features and techniques.
2) Develop personal preferences and observational drawing skills by analyzing and sketching figures from different periods.
3) Understand the influence of historical contexts and artistic movements on figure drawing, and engage with contemporary figural art through research and discussion.
Prehistoric to 5th Century BCE
Paleolithic Art
It was typical for Paleolithic artists to draw animals rather than people. Although we are focused on drawing the human body in this course, please follow this link to observe the "movement" portion of this video. Here, prehistoric humans are able to represent the sensation of movement with a still, 2D image. This is a challenge that we will be working on during this course.
Egyptian Art (3000 B.C.E.)
Watch the following video about the low reliefs and paintings of ancient Egypt. Please contribute to the discussion by answering the question, "Is there a certain figure that stood out to you in this video? If so, why?"
Greek and Roman Art
Look at the Metropolitan Museum of Art's collection of Greek and Roman art. Practice drawing one of the figures with no prior knowledge. How did you do? Did you enjoy sketching it? What did you struggle with? Share an image of your sketch to this Padlet.
Medieval and Renaissance Art
The medieval and renaissance periods of art in Northern and Southern Europe were notably different despite being so close together on a historical timeline. Medieval art was known to be stiff and flat, not too different from the wall paintings of Ancient Egypt. Renaissance art was transformed, using perspective and oil paints. Artists were no longer artisans or craftsmen, but they were individuals following a passion and intellectual pursuit.
Read this article which compares the two eras of art.
Baroque and Neoclassical Art
Baroque Art
Baroque art was realistic, ornate, and high-contrast. Vermeer and Caravaggio were notable Baroque painters. Bernini was a notable Baroque sculptor. His figure sculptures can be used as references for modern-day figure artists. This website shares a great timeline. There were a lot of figure paintings and sculptures during this time!
Neoclassical Art
Neoclassical art was inspired by the art of ancient Rome and Greece. This is why it is so important to look at art history before we make art. Inspiration is cyclical and is often found from our past! Take a look at these Neoclassical paintings.
Contemporary Figure Drawings and Paintings
Some of my favorite contemporary figural artists include Kehinde Wiley, Roberto Lugo, and Amy Sherald.
Activity:
Go to Google Arts and Culture. Use keywords like, "Figure" or "Woman" to explore different examples of figural artworks (Paintings, drawings, sculptures, photos, etc.) Find one image that appeals to you especially. Please copy and paste that image, share it to this discussion, and write 3-4 sentences about why that particular image stood out to you.