Drawing Breadth #2

Transparent and Reflective Glass Surfaces

Focus: Line quality and weight, rendering of form, illusion of depth

Goal: Create a close up composition of glassware that features both the reflective and transparent qualities of glassware. Add your own unique approach to the subject matter through additional still-life material.

Process:

1. Setup your still-life to work from observation or for photographing. Gather needed glass or plastic ware as well as any additional props. Think of non-traditional "glass" such as the lantern in the slides above or interesting items to place within or around your glasses, vases, and jars.

Hint: Rounded glass warps and bends anything placed behind it. Glass vessels filled with water will also distort objects. Use this knowledge to create a more interesting composition. Layer vessels for added effect.

2. Place your props on a neutral background as this will be part of your composition. Colored papers, fabrics, and beads placed within your composition can add interest.

3. Create your piece. Graphite or colored pencil is a great selection for this piece as it give a great deal of control of media. Other options are also acceptable. Do not work any smaller than 8"x 10".