by Summer Li
Above is my first contour ink drawing for this lesson. I tried adding some lines and detail to the background, similar to a topographic map. Overall, the drawing was kept simple.
by Jean Paul Montanaro
For this second drawing, I focused more on the shadows. I tried cross hatching on the darker and lower parts of the bird and tree branches. I also did not add very much detail to the background, because I thought it would distract from the foreground.
Artist Inspirations: Henry Moore
Look closely at Henry Moore’s drawing Pink and Green Sleepers. Observe the way he used cross contour lines to create the shape of his subjects. Do the shape of the people and the blankets remind you of rolling hills? Why do you think the sleeve on the woman’s shirt has a tinge of colour? How did the drawing make you feel? What elements of art did Moore use in this drawing?
The shape of the people and the blankets look similar to rolling hills. That is because the lines are curved and wavy, somewhat expressing the peacefulness of the sleepers. The woman’s sleeve has a tinge of colour, probably because it adds some warmth and contrast to the overall drawing. At first, the drawing seemed unsettling because I have not seen anything like it. However, as I looked closer, I felt at peace – almost relating to the sleeping people. In conclusion, Moore used many elements of art, such as form, space, and rhythm, which can be seen in the lines.
Stop and Think
What role do artists play in local and global communities?
Some artists would represent their culture through art to share with their local community. They use art to showcase their traditions and practices to newer generations, helping to preserve their culture. An example would be Indigenous artists in Saskatchewan. In global communities, some artists would address social and environmental issues. They use their creative skills to create awareness and promote change for a better future. An example would be activist art that challenge racism, sexism, war, and so on. In conclusion, artists play an important role in local and global communities.