Water
Bodies of water are usually contained as a lake, a pond,
a river, a waterfall, or an ocean. In other words, water
cannot be seen and drawn alone. There is often some-
thing else besides water, something that holds it,
something that frames it, or something that allows
water to fall on it. There are the riverbanks, the shore-
lines, the edge of a swimming pool, the edge of a foun-
tain, and the rocks or cliffs beside the waterfall.Water can also be expressed indirectly by sketching
the associated subject matter. For example, by sketch-
ing a boat with waves around it you imply that the boat
is bobbing in the water. A few sails on the horizon line
create an image of a distant regatta in full action.
Reflection brings out the mirror effect and stillness
of the water’s surface.Water seeks a level and horizontal surface, so the best
way to sketch it is to start with a simple horizontal line
by pulling the pencil across the page. To maintain a
sharp and consistent line, turn the pencil slightly when
pulling it across. Use short horizontal strokes to create
an uneven surface, and use slightly curved horizontal
strokes to show the waves in action. Repeat these
patterns in a horizontal manner down the page if nec-
essary to give the sketch a sense of depth. Varying
the values of the lines and shading also suggests
motion on the water’s surface as well as how the water
reacts with light.Charles River Esplanade, Boston, MA; #2 pencil