Monochrome drawing uses black, white and shades of grey to create an image. Common tools include drawing charcoal, graphite and Conté pencils, different erasers—especially a kneaded eraser—blending stumps and suitable drawing paper or board.
Key characteristics
- An emphasis on light, shadow and volume
- The depiction of textures such as skin, hair and fabric
- Applications in portraits, still life, animals and landscapes
- The possibility of realistic or hyperrealistic treatment
A learning path
Line practice, control of hand pressure, understanding light and shadow, and drawing simple shapes and volumes form a useful foundation. From there, you can practise facial features such as eyes, noses and lips before progressing to a complete portrait.
Continue practising line and form with drawing fundamentals. To arrange in-person tuition, visit drawing and charcoal lessons.
