THE PENCIL AS A MEASURING DEVICE
We can analyse our observations in a number
of ways to enable us to make a visual record
of what we see. One of these ways involves
using the pencil both as mark maker and
measuring device. What you are doing in
effect is building a grid on which to map out
your drawing. This approach is appropriate
for all types of observational drawing and for
different subjects ranging from landscape
and still life to figure drawing. I have chosen
a figure for our example because the pencil
is still the most popular measure for this type
of drawing; go to the life rooms of any art
college and you will find it widely used. The
procedure is as follows:
1/ Set yourself up for drawing in a fixed
position so you have a consistent view that
doesn't alter. This enables you to see the
subject from the same viewpoint every time
without any change occurring - vital if your
measurements are to be accurate.
2/Hold the pencil in the fist of your favoured
hand, leaving your thumb free so that it can
slide freely up and down the side of the
pencil.
3/ Stretch your arm out straight towards
your subject matter and take a
measurement. This is always done on a
vertical axis. For instance, if we are drawing a
figure, usually the measurement will be from
the top of the head to the bottom of the
chin. Close one eye as you do this, to focus
your vision and give you one viewpoint. Put
the top edge of the pencil at the top of the
head then pull your thumb down the pencil
until you come to the bottom of the chin.
You have now established the proportion of
the head. Repeat this process along an
imaginary vertical down the body, using that
first head proportion as your measure for
dividing the figure. This will give you a
proportional overall length of the figure -
usually an average person will comprise
eight head proportions in all from tip to toe.4/You can repeat this process to measure
the width of your figure. Turn your pencil to
the horizontal position and measure across24
Part One – THE PENCIL
- and 5.