Lately, I've been thinking I might like to take up drawing as a hobby. I used to draw a lot when I was younger, and everyone seemed to praise me for it (although I guess at that age that isn't saying much). I took a couple after school art classes back then as my then art teacher suggested, but they were more arts-and-crafts oriented, and really, I just wanted to draw. Over the years, I guess I kind of lost interest, and now I'd be lucky if I could draw a simple stick figure.
>>15
With all due respect, I really think avoiding copying is the worst thing you can do in any creative endeavor. This mindset is the reason why Japanese dojinshi look like professional magazines, while even professional American manga and tend to look like trash in comparison. In Japan, kids learn to copy their favorite artists from when they're as young as 6 years old.
#21 here:
Holy crap, I didn't see how old this thread was O_O;
>>22
Thanks anyway.
I don't think they're that expensive. You don't have to buy top art brands. Just go to a newsagent and buy them for like $1 each.
>>24
I enjoy 4b as it doesn't smudge too much and I can still make relatively clean/thin lines
and I find changing pencils all the time kinda annoying
is it normal for people to not be able to draw a perfectly straight line
mine always end up curving; am i retarded
No, that's something you'll need to practice. You can start by simply drawing a frame around what will be your picture, say 1/2 inch from the edge, just to warm up. Do this on every new sheet you use. The practice will add up.
the only problem is, i've been practicing for years. i mean, i haven't set aside time for it, but i had assumed that i could pull this off by now. perhaps i am doomed for failure
Set aside time for it. I mean a block of at least an hour, preferably two or more. Give yourself enough time to really get down and explore what you're doing, and finish it. While the importance of practicing quick sketching cannot be understated, don't deprive yourself of the skills you can gain from spending extended time on a single drawing and not stopping until you have something you're really satisfied with.
Bump
Any good reference sites? The Shii site is down.