How to Draw Still Life

 

This step-by-step lesson will teach you the drawing techniques used to create a still life.

Step 1 - Draw Transparent Wire Frames

Begin by drawing the objects as transparent wire frames, with visible lines of construction. This technique helps you fully understand the shape of each form and its position relative to others.

Sketch lightly, as this makes it easier to correct mistakes and erase construction lines. Using vertical and horizontal lines of construction will help you draw convincing ellipses and maintain the symmetry of cylindrical forms.

Once you're satisfied with the shape, proportion, and composition of the still life, you can erase the construction lines, leaving you with accurate outlines and confidence in the placement of each object.

You’re now ready to focus on the details.

Step 2 - Add Details with Line

Next, lightly sketch the shapes of any shadows or reflections on each object. The more accurate you are with these marks, the easier the shading process will be.

Step 3 - Shading: Stage 1

Start shading by lightly applying basic tones to each object, which will help build its three-dimensional form. Pay attention to the spaces between and around the objects, treating the drawing of light and shadow with as much importance as the objects themselves. The shadows cast around and beneath the objects contribute significantly to defining their shapes, just as the shading on their surfaces does.

Notice how the interplay of light and dark between the objects and their surroundings gradually takes over from the initial line work in defining their forms.

Step 4 - Shading: Stage 2

Return your focus to the objects themselves, deepening the tones and increasing the contrast between areas of light and dark. This step enhances the form of the objects and heightens their impact.

At this stage, maintaining a balance of tones across the entire still life is crucial. Strive for unity in tone and form so that no object appears too dark or too light.

Step 5 - Shading: Stage 3

Finally, revisit the spaces between the objects, deepening their tones and enhancing the contrast. Carefully balance the tonal values of the objects and the spaces around them to ensure a cohesive and unified image.

The Finished Still Life

The completed still life should succeed on two levels: as a realistic representation of the group of objects and as a dynamic composition of visual elements, harmonizing and contrasting line, shape, and tone.