From the Awareness Series
This challenge is a chance to practice stopping and really looking at what’s in front of us. The goal isn’t to draw the subject, it’s to embrace the act of observing it. When you do this you’re able to discover and capture the details that make that specific thing interesting and unique. No matter how your drawing turns out, you’ll likely capture some details you would have never noticed or appreciated if you were drawing normally.
And even though the final product isn’t the goal, I often find that when I draw this way there’s something especially compelling about the final image. Even though it isn’t a technically accurate depiction of the subject it has a sense of authenticity and life. It’s a record of truly seeing and being present in a moment, which is pretty cool!
Art Challenge
Time At least 5 minutes
You Need Your sketchbook, a fine point drawing tool, a natural object with an interesting outline (flowers, a leaf, a shell, etc.)
What to do
- Choose a point somewhere along the edge of the object to be the starting point of your drawing.
- Put your drawing tool on the page. You’re not allowed to look down at your paper from now on!
- Trace the edge of the object with your eyes suuuuuuper slowly. As your eye moves, move your drawing tool in exactly the same way and speed.
- Try to notice and capture every tiny bump, angle, curve. Imagine you’re tracing the path of a tiny ant walking around the object.
- Even thought it’s tempting, don’t take your eyes off the object as you draw!
- Continue until you’ve gone around the entire object and are back to your starting point. (You’re drawn line might not be back at the starting point. That’s fine!)
- Optional: Repeat to add more objects to the page. You can also color in the outline once you’re done.
- Optional (and awesome!): Share your work on Instagram with #makeartlifelooking so we can enjoy it!
Reflection
- What details did you notice as you drew that you didn’t notice at first?
- How would your drawing have been different if you drew it while looking at your paper instead of the subject?
- What about your subject were you able to capture in your drawing? Did anything you were able to capture surprise you?
Life Challenge
Throughout the week take time to stop and tune-in, especially during everyday routines when you’re likely to be on autopilot. Challenge yourself to notice or appreciate at least one new thing in the moment!