Sunrise Brilliance, drawing


My first charcoal landscape drawing that was done for a monthly challenge.  The theme was to illustrate dramatic light.

This 8×10 drawing was done with charcoal (HB, B, 3B) and white charcoal on Strathmore paper.  As I assess the finished drawing, I learned a big lesson – before applying the charcoal be sure each position of subjects (can’t erase it) I should have stood back to check the sketched scene as a first step.  So what caught my eye?  The swan should have been about 3/4″ higher into the water as oppose to being in line with the vegetation – would have given the scene better balance.

Have a great weekend, hope to catch up on everyone’s posts later today.

Sunrise Brilliance

About Mary

Oil Pastelist
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21 Responses to Sunrise Brilliance, drawing

  1. lesliepaints says:

    I really like this. There is an element of sponataneity by having that swan just peeking into the frame of this. Takes the interest off that and emphasizes the light as the main feature and the swan as a supporting element. Nice!!!!

  2. Your values are right on! Lovely as usual Mary.

  3. Wonderful reflections! Enjoy your weekend! 😀

  4. The scene is well done, but I especially like your ability to assess and learn from the experience of making it……

    • Mary says:

      Thanks Cynthia – several areas that immediately standout to me: The streaming light rays should be straight and one/two of the lines need to be revisited, the swan should be 3/4″ higher into the main body of the water to breaking w/the line of vegetation, and the white checks/holes should have been filled in w/colorless blender or brush (I used a pastel paper that was too textured, thus the holes – should have used my good drawing paper but I didn’t think I was going to get serious w/this piece). Charcoal is interesting medium to draw with, another learning experience.

  5. Ah, Mary I like the light in this. Well done! 🙂

  6. sefeniak says:

    Enjoy your weekend too Mary!

  7. Maria says:

    it looks amazing! so real…!!! have a nice weekend you too!

  8. mamie says:

    So peaceful! I love the reflections in the water.

  9. doronartd says:

    Mary it looking good have a super weekend x

  10. Heartafire says:

    this is wonderful!

  11. Jackie says:

    Have a great weekend! 🙂

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