Visual Storytelling: Beyond the Lines
Have you ever stared at a blank page, yearning to bring your artistic visions to life, but feeling lost in a sea of “how-tos”? Fear not, aspiring artists! Robin and Lorenzo Etherington, the creative minds behind beloved comics like Long Gone Don and contributors to Star Wars, Angry Birds, and Transformers, are here to guide you with their treasure trove of practical drawing wisdom.
Beyond their vibrant comic creations, this dynamic duo has dedicated themselves to demystifying the art of drawing through their immensely popular “How to Think When You Draw” series. These illustrated lessons, shared freely online and compiled into stunning books, now available on Kickstarter, are a masterclass in breaking down complex concepts into digestible, actionable tips.
Let’s dive into a few of their insightful quick tips designed to elevate your artistic skills:
Compositional Mastery
Ever struggled with cover design? The Etheringtons suggest a simple yet powerful technique: “When composing covers, try drawing two lines through the page and build your design around them.” This creates a dynamic framework, guiding the viewer’s eye and adding structure to your composition.
Depth and Believability
To give believability and a true sense of depth, remember that everything appears in perspective. They emphasize using smaller elements to define the form of larger planes, creating a realistic and immersive visual experience. This focus on perspective is a cornerstone of their teaching.
Panel Power
Comic artists, take note! The way you divide your panels can dramatically impact storytelling. The Etheringtons showcase diverse methods, from diagonal slashes to subtle line breaks, demonstrating how to use visual elements to guide the reader through your narrative.
Mastering Light and Shadow
Understanding how light interacts with facial features is crucial for creating realistic and expressive portraits. The Etheringtons illuminate how subtle shifts in light direction can drastically alter the mood and form of a face.
Composition with Contrast
The Etheringtons demonstrate how to create visual interest by balancing the rigid lines of structures like train tracks with the softer, more organic curves of surrounding architecture.
Shape and Angle Harmony
Use a mix of shapes and angles in your illustrations. They show how varying the shapes and angles of your subjects adds visual interest and dynamic energy to your work.
The Power of the Line Break
A line break or thinning of a line is a good way to suggest two objects or surfaces are actually touching. This subtle technique adds a layer of realism and depth to your illustrations.
These are just a glimpse of the wealth of knowledge the Etherington brothers share. Their approach is refreshingly practical, breaking down complex concepts into easily digestible lessons that any artist, regardless of skill level, can apply.
Want to get your hands on these tutorials – and much more?
Want to delve deeper into their artistic wisdom? The Etherington brothers have launched their annual Kickstarter campaign for the latest editions of their “How to Think When You Draw” books. These meticulously crafted volumes are a culmination of their years of experience and passion for teaching, offering an unparalleled resource for artists of all disciplines.
Whether you’re a seasoned professional or just starting your artistic journey, the Etherington brothers’ “How to Think When You Draw” series is an invaluable resource. With their clear explanations, practical tips, and infectious enthusiasm, they’ll inspire you to see the world through an artist’s eyes.
By supporting their Kickstarter, you’re not just acquiring a valuable learning tool; you’re joining a vibrant community of artists committed to growth and creativity. Don’t miss this opportunity to elevate your artistic skills and support the Etherington brothers’ mission to empower artists worldwide. Visit their Kickstarter page today and unlock your inner artist!
