Sketching

An Introduction to Biological Drawing & Sketching

Biological drawings and sketches have a rich history.  Harkening back to 1489, Leonardo da Vinci began a series of anatomical drawings, mapping the human body.  In total, Leonardo dissected approximately thirty cadavers, continuing until 1515 when ordered to stop by Pope Leo X.  His 750 drawings include the structure of organs, bone, muscle, and even the position of the foetus in the womb.

Owing to the rise of Guten's printing press in the 16th century, a Renaissance revival in science arose.  With the availability of printed text, naturalists achieved new readership and an opportunity to show what they had observed.

Biological Drawing Techniques

Watch the following video-podcast by Mr. Bleecker about biological drawings.  This material is also covered in class in further detail.

Assignment

Produce three biological drawings.

In class, there are multiple specimens to choose from. 

Drawing live specima is encouraged.

Draw - toadstools, fish, hamster, the family pet.

Be sure to follow the drawing rules outlined for this unit.

Each drawing is valued at 10 points

Drawing Criteria

border (1)

shading / stippling accuracy must provide detail of structure (3)

name (1)

image drawn in the center (1)

general name for specimen included at top (1)

necessary image magnification is used to fill the page (1)

overall clarity of the drawing (2)