Understanding the Common Ups and Downs in Drawing Progress

Drawing, like any artistic endeavor, often experiences a pattern of improvement that involves facing moments of decline. It’s not uncommon to introduce changes in one's techniques or materials only to find that the process stalls or even regresses. This article explores the typical scenario where drawing progress seems to pause or even decline temporarily before continuing to improve. We’ll also delve into the concept of the ‘ugly stage’ in colored pencil drawings and discuss strategies to navigate through these phases effectively.

Is It Common for Drawings to Go Through a Period of Decline Before Improving?

When you introduce something new into your drawing process, it’s understandable why progress might fluctuate. Changing an element, such as your pencil grip, using a different set of pencils, or altering the medium can disrupt your progress. For example, introducing a larger clipboard for sketching might require a different approach to composition and value building, which can initially slow down your progress.

Often, the root of the problem isn’t the change itself, but rather, the changes made to your techniques or materials. It’s not the change per se that’s the issue, but rather, how you adapt to these changes. In many cases, once the underlying issue is resolved or the new technique is mastered, you can regain and then surpass your previous progress.

The Ugly Stage in Colored Pencil Drawings

A specific phase, often referred to as the ‘ugly stage,’ is particularly prevalent in colored pencil drawings. This stage typically manifests after the initial layers of color are applied to the paper, before the desired depth and tonal gradations are achieved.

Colored pencil drawings can take several layers to build up the necessary tones and values to capture the subject’s depth and complexity. During the early stages, the layers of color may appear childlike or rudimentary. It’s crucial to understand that unless more layers are built upon the initial base, the drawing won’t mature into the refined piece you envision.

The ‘ugly stage’ can be frustrating, but it’s a necessary part of the process. A well-etched composition with added colors often lacks the fullness and depth until the layers of color are applied and built up. The key is to treat this phase as a step towards the final, more refined drawing. It’s an opportunity to work out the kinks, resolve issues, and ensure that each subsequent layer adds value and depth to the piece.

Strategies to Navigate Through the Ugly Stage

To navigate through the ‘ugly stage’ effectively, consider the following strategies:

Patience and Persistence:Understand that the process takes time. Allow yourself to work through the initial layers without rushing to judgment. Patience is crucial as each layer contributes to the final piece. Technical Practice:Invest time in refining your technique. Experiment with different methods of layering and blending colors to master the best approach for your artistic goals. Feedback and Critique:Seek feedback from other artists or viewers to gain new perspectives on how your drawing is progressing. Constructive criticism can help you identify areas for improvement. Material Mastery:Get to know the properties of your colored pencils. Different brands and types of pencils have varying characteristics that can impact your drawing. Experiment with different pencils to find what works best for your style. Visual Reference:Use visual references to ensure accuracy in your drawing and to keep your focus on achieving the desired depth and tonal values.

Conclusion

Facing periods of decline in your drawing progress is a common and natural part of the artistic journey. Whether it’s the switch to a new drawing technique or a phase in colored pencil drawings, understanding and recognizing these steps as part of the process can help you navigate through them more effectively. By maintaining patience, practicing technical skills, seeking feedback, and experimenting with different materials, you can turn the ‘ugly stage’ into a transformative phase that brings you closer to creating the drawing of your dreams.

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