Drawing Techniques part 1- Blind Contour Drawing

When we first picked up a pen or pencil and started making marks on paper, we began with line.

Whether self-taught, through trial and error, or guided by others, we learned how line defines form, creates structure, divides a frame, traces contour, creates tonal variation (cross-hatching, for example) and leads the eye from one part of a work to another.

Initially a mechanism for getting outlines onto paper – identifying edges – we begin to applaud lines for their own merit: celebrate their presence…whether a quiet flick of charcoal on paper or a streak of graphite.

Blind contour

A blind contour drawing contains lines that are drawn without ever looking at the piece of paper.

This forces you to study a scene closely, observing every shape and edge with your eyes, as your hand mimics these on paper.

The aim is not to produce a realistic artwork, but rather to strengthen the connection between eyes, hand and brain: a reminder that, when drawing, you must first learn to see.

Blind Drawing Exercises

Blind drawing is an excellent way to start a drawing workshop . Drawing wobbly lines that bear little resemblance to the chosen object is relaxing and stress-free. Often it engenders bubbles of laughter at the unexpected results.

Blind drawing stretches the arms and soul.

Use a piece of paper to hide your hand and pen, look at the image and simply let your mind guide you.