Focal Point Studies with Viewfinder

FOCAL POINT STUDIES WITH A VIEWFINDER

Draw 2 IDENTICAL compositions of a still life. Bring 2 different focal points (1 for each composition) to full value and draw the rest of the compositions with line weight/variation. The full-value focal points must be around 1/4 of the entire composition.

TERMS

FOCAL POINT - The intended center of interest in a work of art.

VIEWFINDER - A drawing tool consisting of a rectangular opening of a relative proportion to the drawing surface that helps to determine the composition of a drawing.

COMPOSITION - The way the component parts (the formal elements) of a work of art are arranged in a given space.

WATCH DEMO

STEPS

STEP 1: Make your viewfinder. Follow the instructions in the "How to Make a Viewfinder Demo"

STEP 2: Draw 2 rectangular borders on your paper measuring 10.5" x 14":

STEP 3: Draw at least 4 quick thumbnail sketches of composition studies using the viewfinder. At least 2 horizontal and 2 vertical.
A note about Composition: Think about the rule of thirds when finding a composition. Also, avoid placing objects directly in the middle of the composition or sharing an edge of the picture plane.

STEP 4: Decide on one composition. Blow it up and draw it exactly the same in each of the rectangles on your paper

STEP 5: Decide on a different focal point for each. Bring the focal points to full value and draw the rest of the composition using line weight.

STUDENT EXAMPLES: