Course Highlights


Creating Your Workspace


The 3 keys to an effective workspace are lighting, positioning, and environment.

Lighting

When it comes to lighting, natural daylight is preferred because it shows the true colors of your subject and does not strain your eyes. Ideal natural lighting comes from constant, indirect rays and minimal shadow movement. A room with north-facing windows tends to produce this type of light best in the northern hemisphere. (South-facing windows in the southern hemisphere) However, ideal natural sunlight cannot be expected around the clock so it's important to have the proper artificial lights in place. Halogen lights are highly recommended because they closely approximate the qualities of natural daylight (minimal strain and accurate rendering of colors). You can also buy blue-tinted daylight-simulation bulbs or fluorescent lights. In addition to this overhead lighting, it is highly useful to install a lamp with a flexible neck nearby so that you can shine light directly onto the surface you are working on.

Positioning

The most important thing when it comes to positioning is that you're comfortable. Some people prefer to sit at a desk, paper flat on the surface. Others prefer to work from a lap desk, clipboard or sketch pad angled off their lap, while still others prefer to stand or sit in front of an easel. Try them all and see which one works best for you. The key is that you set yourself up in a relaxed position which allows for free mobility of your arm. Keep in mind that your back will tire quickly if you are hunched over your work. If you decide to work with an easel, it should be positioned at a right angle to your subject, with the light source slightly behind you and coming over the shoulder opposite your drawing hand. This positioning will prevent a shadow from being cast over your work. Easels are affordable and come in a range of styles (see ¨tools¨ for more information). They are great for adding flexibility to your workspace by allowing you to change positions depending on lighting conditions and/or the model's pose. A general rule of thumb when it comes to positioning your easel at the appropriate distance is if you can touch the subject with your extended arm you're probably too close, but if you can't see the smaller details, move yourself in a little closer.

Environment

Drawing should be an enjoyable, relaxing activity. It requires concentration and focus so it is important that you choose a space that will allow you some privacy and few distractions. If you can't create this designated space permanently, you may have to coordinate your drawing time with the schedules of others in your household so that you can create a personal workspace for yourself at designated times. Otherwise, put on some headphones to help you focus. Music is excellent for getting you into the right frame of mind, setting a rhythm and blocking out distracting noises.

Other pages of interest

Introduction to drawing
Finding inspiration for drawing
Creating your drawing workspace
Drawing tools: Pencils
Drawing tools: Sketch pads


 

 

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