The Pencil Box
A Treasury of Time-Tested Drawing Techniques and Advice
From the Editors of The Artist's Magazine & North Light Books
Paperback, 128 pages, Copyright ©2006
F+W Publications

Authored by a team of contributors, The Pencil Box offers solid drawing advice from twenty experienced artists and instructors. The book begins with a thorough overview of the types of drawing materials: pencils, charcoal and pen & ink, pointing out the advantages of each. Basic drawing techniques are explained and illustrated with example photos. Readers will learn the importance of light and shadow, how to use shading tools, draw from memory, adjust values, create a complete sketch and much more.

Chapters 2 and 3 deal with specific subjects, landscapes and portraits, while Chapter 4 covers the use of colored pencils and mixed media. Each chapter includes techniques for dealing with common drawing dilemmas related to the subject matter. The landscape section contains good discussions on establishing a strong picture frame, using perspective to create depth and realism, and drawing realistic natural elements. The chapter on portraits and figures presents advice on drawing realistic facial features drawing self-portraits, mastering the figure and adding personality to drawings.

The instruction in each chapter is accompanied by demonstrations-drawing exercises illustrated with step-by-step drawings and photos. Teachers could easily use these demonstrations (there are 20 in all) as classroom exercises for introducing and practicing a variety of techniques.

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