Ep 9. Line and Shape: Line Attributes and Gesture

Hosted by professional artist and teacher, John Smith, "How to Draw" is a visually stunning instructional show that aims to teach viewers of all skill levels the fundamentals of drawing and sketching. In season 1 episode 9, entitled "Line and Shape: Line Attributes and Gesture," John dives deep into the principles of drawing using lines and shapes.

The episode begins with a brief introduction from John, who explains the importance of understanding line attributes and gesture in order to properly convey movement and form in a drawing. He emphasizes the idea that every line should have a purpose, and that understanding the different attributes of a line (such as weight, texture, and direction) can greatly enhance the quality of a drawing.

John then launches into a series of demonstrations and exercises designed to illustrate these concepts. He starts off by drawing several basic shapes (circles, squares, and triangles) and using a combination of thick and thin lines to add dimension and texture to them. He also explains how the direction of a line can affect the viewer's perception of the shape, and shows how changing the direction of lines within a shape can create different and interesting effects.

Next, John moves on to discussing the concept of "gesture" in drawing. He explains that gesture refers to the overall movement and energy of a drawing, and that capturing this energy is crucial to creating a dynamic and engaging piece of art. To illustrate this, he draws a simple figure and shows how the placement of lines can create a sense of motion and intentionality. He also demonstrates how the use of flowing, curved lines can add fluidity and grace to a drawing.

Throughout the episode, John provides ample opportunities for viewers to practice what they've learned. He offers several drawing prompts and exercises, encouraging viewers to experiment with line attributes and gesture on their own. He also takes time to provide individual feedback and critique to a few select viewers who've submitted their work for review.

The episode concludes with a final summary from John, who reiterates the importance of understanding line attributes and gesture in creating impactful and memorable drawings. He encourages viewers to continue practicing these skills on their own, and reminds them that artistic growth is a lifelong journey.

Overall, "Line and Shape: Line Attributes and Gesture" is a valuable resource for anyone looking to improve their drawing skills. John's clear and concise teaching style, combined with the visually stunning art demonstrations, make for an engaging and informative viewing experience. Whether you're a beginner or experienced artist, this episode is sure to offer valuable insights and practical techniques to help take your drawings to the next level.