Sequential Drawing: A Journey in missed proportions

The worst method to create proportion is referred to as sequential drawing (not to be confused with sequential art). This is where the artists begin drawing at a certain point, let's say the nose, and trace around the body until they reach the starting point again at the nose. This will always lead to incorrect proportions because there are no markers to indicate if you are on the right path or if you have diverged from the path.

When I talk to students in their first drawing classes, I always point out that there are many ways to draw to achieve many different results. What I want to do is present them with a method that will achieve accurate proportions and provide them with a starting point when looking at a blank piece of paper.

1) Decide what you want to draw, and where it will be located on your paper. Ask your self if it will be contained within the paper (closed composition) or will it go off the edges (open composition).

2) Is your position to your paper and subject matter the best possible position? Can you easily see the subject and your paper at the same time?

3) Establish marks for the length, width, and height of your objects; measuring them against your pencil with the same eye closed and arm out straight. Step back and see if these marks are in proportion to the subject matter.

4) Using these marks simplify the objects in your mind by making them basic shapes displayed on the paper. Think square, rectangle, and circle.

5) Take a step back and look to make sure everything is in proportion.

6) Refine your drawing, creating accurate details.

7) Introduce values, the measure of how dark or light an object is.

8) Smile because you have just started to establish a healthy, smart, and efficient way to get your drawings in correct proportion.