'Free Drawing and Painting Articles, Tips, and Resources

For Budding Artists and Art Educators'

The Sketch Versus The Study

What's the difference between a sketch and a study?

So far we have used the term "sketching" to mean the making of a pictorial representation that is complete in itself.

We have avoided rendering the minute details, being interested only in capturing a spontaneous interpretation of the subject.

Along with making sketches, time should be taken to make studies.

Since we plan eventually to work our sketches into larger finished paintings in the studio, some details of the various objects that make up the composi­tion may be needed.

For example, if you have a large tree in the immediate foreground you will need more than just an impression of the tree.

The bark may possess an in­teresting textural quality. Take the time to make a de­tailed study of the bark formation.

If large rocks occupy an important part of your sketch, you will have to do more than just indicate them in light and shade.

Supplementary studies should be made so that rough and smooth areas, crevices, moss stain, and other details are recorded.

Studies should be made of subtle color effects. Occa­sionally just paint the color passage of the foreground area.

At other times concentrate on the sky alone.

You will find that there are times when the scene before you does not produce much inspiration.

Instead of wasting time waiting or hoping for a more receptive mood, single out an area and make a study of it.

Tight black-and-white studies, rendered with pencil or pen, are excellent disciplinary exercises if you have a tendency to work carelessly.

Whether you make studies for later studio paintings or just as a discipline, you will find them well worth the time spent.

Done with Sketch and Study? Go To The Sketching Page.

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