Still Life Drawing

A still life drawing is a drawing of an arrangement of 3D objects from observation. An interesting still life is created when the objects have different forms and different textures. The objects should also be arranged at different heights.

The space between the objects is known as the negative space. This empty space is just as important as the positive space as it creates shapes in between the objects.

 

Key Elements: Form and Texture

Man-made objects

Man-made objects must be drawn accurately. The forms are often symmetrical and contain straight lines.

List of possible man-made objects:
Cup
Plate
Kitchen utensils
Bottle of wine
Shoe
Garden tools
Books
Make-up
Paint brushes
Pots
Pans


Note: In order to draw a cylindrical object you must be able to draw an ellipse (a circle seen in perspective)

Understanding an ellipse:

Task:
-Take note of the circle shape on the top of a can (can of beans, can of coke etc.)
-Hold the can out in front of you at arms length at eye level. This is the horizon line.
-Move your arm up and down taking note of how the circle on the top of the can changes shape as you move it above and below the horizon line.

 

Organic objects

Organic objects are made up of curved lines and often complex textures. The forms tend to be rounded and curvilinear.

List of possible objects:
Animal bones and skulls
Shells
Plants
Flowers
Feathers
Fruit
Vegetables