Learning to Draw

I saw the author of Artistic Pursuits speak at a convention.  His tips were to start a formal study around 4th grade, or when they start becoming frustrated with their drawings.  Before that time, he said to help them study details by much observation and to draw in their own creative way based on what they remember from their observation.  I have not tried his book yet, but intend to when my son is closer to 4th grade.  He teaches the elements of art and not “how to draw a … just like he does”.  So the students learn how to draw without just copying someone else’s drawing.  I liked that part of it.  Hope that helps.  Maybe someone who has actually tried it could give their opinion.

http://www.artisticpursuits.com

I’d love to get something like this, as well.  My dd is 8, but she is definitely frustrated with her work.  She is an artist by nature, and her drawings and creations astound us with her age vs. ability.  My dh is an artist, as well, but unfortunately does not have the time to sit down with her regularly and help her learn.  Right now they draw side by side, but not always the same things, and he doesn’t teach her the elements at all, to my knowledge.  My only reservation is the price…  $43 per book is a hefty amount, even if I would be using for 4 separate children. 

I got a little feedback about Artistic Pursuits from 2 other HS moms I know, and they both really liked the program.  Still waiting for my hubby to look at it (he’s the artist that passed on those genes to the kids ), and I’m hoping he says it’s a go!  It looks perfect for my little artists.  🙂

I am using Artistic Pursuits loosely with my two young boys. One is very artistic, especially with sculpture materials. The other is a very “engineer/logic type thinker”, like Rachel’s son. Surprisingly, both of my boys love it. Funny how children who are similar in many ways can also be so different. I believe that they do need some practice copying the great artists, just as children need to read great books and learn to write in different styles. It serves many purposes, and it helps them develop their own style. I’ve read about numerous artists and writers who started out copying the works of people they admired. But, back to Artistic Pursuits. I haven’t seen the books for older students. The early books allow for a great deal of creativity and self-expression. I think it’s very good for younger children. I haven’t seen Drawing with Children, but have heard wonderful things about it.

I know what you mean about the book.  It’s pretty intimidating, but I’m going to give it a shot anyway.  My 7yo ds draws daily, and I know he’d love something to help him in it.  I wish the book were laid out in a more user-friendly way! 

OK, I was lost and now I”m found…the post, that is.

So to bring it to Michelle’s attn., I’m bumping up.

Thanks for freeing my post, Doug!

Rachel

In one of the SCM workshops on DVD, the speaker’s husband got up and shared about the books he uses to teach from.  They were inexpensive, he gave the example of the learning to draw buildings book, but they have lots of different topics, mainly pencil sketching.  I can’t remember the name of the series or the books or the company.  Does anyone know what I’m talking about?