Finding The Best Charcoal Drawing Artists

By Elaine Guthrie


Charred sticks were used by early humans in many cultures to create drawings on cave walls. In Renaissance times, techniques were discovered to prevent drawings in this medium from fading over time and it became a medium in its own right instead of just a tool for creating preliminary sketches. Today charcoal drawing artists are producing astounding works of art that can hold their own against any other medium.

There are many different techniques that need to be mastered. Hatching is one of these and involves the use of parallel lines. With cross-hatching, two sets of lines are overlaid. Rubbing is another technique and lifting, requiring use of an eraser, helps to create highlights. All of the techniques used contribute to the creation of depth and tone gradients.

All artists use different techniques and materials to produce their particular style. They may use only black, creating mood with a smudge or a smear. They may prefer to work with charcoals that are pastel in color. Whatever their style, the best way to assess their skill levels is to examine their portfolios. Fortunately, these are available online, enabling one to easily compare styles.

The harder the charcoal used, the lighter the line it produces on the paper. Using very soft charcoals allows for blending or making deeper lines. A medium rating lies between hard and soft. The type of paper used depends on working method. A rough textured surface or heavier tooth drags the particles from the stick, and holds them to the paper. The paper has to be strong enough to withstand applications.

Creating very realistic portraits is possible using charcoals. An artist may take hours to capture details of the facial expression of a subject. A photograph is normally used today as this saves time for both the artist and the client. The ability to take excellent photographs means that live models no longer have to sit still for hours for the production of sketches.

When commissioning a portrait in this medium, prices may vary considerably. An established artist who has already built up a reputation and worked for many clients will obviously charge more. Other factors like size and the number of subjects also influence the price. A simple head and shoulders portrait may be relatively inexpensive but a full body one with a background will be more pricey.

Signing a contract may be required before any work starts. This includes all the details as agreed by both the artist and the client. A deposit may be requested with the balance being paid on completion.

Ordering drawings is made much easier today with the ability to do this online. Simply email a photograph of a family member and have an unforgettable gift to present on a birthday. Commission a portrait of the couple for a special wedding anniversary and it will become a prized possession. Carefully selecting an artist to do the work will ensure satisfaction and sometimes the piece received is even better than the samples seen on a site.




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