Adding life to landscapes...

Methods of introducing figures:

Last week we learnt how to draw landscapes and seascapes. Today I like to show how you can add life to the scenery.

A solitary human figure on the shore adds more interest to the picture. Figure 1 does not show much details of the landscape but a girl was included to give an impression of freedom and life to the picture. Notice the way she walks into the scene rather than out of it.

You need your viewer to look into and around your creations. So, design them with a good composition. If you have no experience at figure drawing, try a few pencil sketches before you start with pen work.

The distant rock is shown with vertical lines. Thin pen lines have been used to show the waves. A dark black patch shows the shadow of the girl while on the move.

The slacks are shown with shaded lines. Notice the overall shape of the body movement. At first, a pencil sketch can be used to give a good idea of the angle before completing the picture with pen and ink. Once you have become proficient in drawing , put a little shading to show the shadows. Being accurate in drawing is all about being self confident. With dedication and practice, any beginner could learn to draw a perfect landscape.