Making Art Out of Charcoal: The Basics of Drawing with Blackness

Charcoal, with its rich blackness and versatile nature, has long been a favorite medium for artists. Whether you are a beginner or an experienced artist, drawing with charcoal can offer you a wide range of expressive opportunities. In this article, we will explore the basics of drawing with charcoal and how to create stunning art pieces using this unique medium.

Firstly, let’s understand the different types of charcoal available. The two main types of charcoal used in drawing are vine charcoal and compressed charcoal. Vine charcoal is made from burnt willow sticks and is soft, light, and easily smudged. It is perfect for creating loose and gestural sketches. Compressed charcoal, on the other hand, is made from powdered charcoal mixed with a binder and compressed into sticks or pencils. It is darker, harder, and allows for more control in creating detailed and refined artwork.

To start your charcoal drawing, you will need a few essential materials. Firstly, an assortment of charcoals including vine charcoal and compressed charcoal sticks or pencils of various thicknesses. You will also need a kneaded eraser, which is essential for lifting off excess charcoal and creating highlights. Additionally, a blending stump or tortillon can be useful for smudging and softening lines.

Begin by lightly sketching the main outlines of your subject using vine charcoal. This initial sketch is known as the underdrawing and serves as a guide for the final artwork. Remember to keep the lines loose and fluid, as charcoal allows for easy modifications and corrections.

Once you have the basic outline, start adding value and depth to your drawing using compressed charcoal. Apply gentle pressure to create light tones and gradually build up the darkness by layering and blending the charcoal. Experiment with different techniques like hatching, cross-hatching, and stippling to add texture and dimension to your artwork.

One of the most fascinating aspects of charcoal is its ability to create dramatic and expressive contrasts. By blending the charcoal with your fingers, a cloth, or a blending stump, you can achieve smooth gradients and seamlessly transition from light to dark shades. Use this technique to create depth, shadow, and form in your artwork.

When drawing with charcoal, don’t be afraid to embrace the unpredictability that comes with the medium. Charcoal can be messy, smudgy, and even crumbly. However, these “flaws” can add character and charm to your artwork. Allow yourself to experiment, make mistakes, and discover new techniques.

Another important aspect of working with charcoal is the use of negative space. Negative space refers to the areas surrounding and between the main subject. By paying attention to these spaces, you can create a sense of balance and proportion in your artwork. Use the eraser to define these areas and enhance the overall composition.

Lastly, remember to fix your charcoal drawing once you have finished. Charcoal is notoriously delicate and can smudge easily. Using a fixative spray, like hairspray or a professional art fixative, will help set the charcoal and prevent any unwanted smudging or smearing.

In conclusion, drawing with charcoal offers artists a unique opportunity to create expressive and captivating artworks. With its deep blackness, versatility, and ability to create striking contrasts, charcoal can bring life to your drawings. By understanding the basics of charcoal drawing, experimenting with various techniques, and embracing the medium’s unpredictability, you can create stunning art pieces that truly capture the essence of blackness. So grab your charcoal, let your creativity flow, and start making art that tells a story with blackness as its protagonist.