#052 Shapes | A Focus on Placement and Size
DRAWING REFERENCE: small oranges
YOU'LL NEED: 2 sheets of paper torn to about 6x6 inches, pencil, eraser, two Mandarin oranges or similar fruit object.
Hi and Welcome!
Today you'll learn an important skill that artists use to make their drawings look more realistic.
When we think about an orange, we might imagine a perfect circle. But when we carefully observe a real orange, we notice that it has unique shapes, bumps, curves, and details. Artists learn to draw what they actually see, not just what they know about an object.
In this lesson, you'll practice comparing sizes and distances to help place your drawing in the correct position on the page. I've included a cut orange to make the arrangement more interesting and to give you different shapes to observe.
Remember, you can also use fruit pieces, slices, or different arrangements to create your own unique drawing.
Today You Will:
- Carefully observe the fruit arrangement.
- Compare sizes and distances between objects and the edge of the paper.
- Notice where objects are placed on the page.
- Create a simple line drawing based on what you see.
Learning to measure with your eyes is one of the best ways to improve your drawing skills!
What You'll Discover
1. Draw on Paper That Matches Your Setup
Using drawing paper that is about the same size as the paper or surface your objects are sitting on can make it easier to compare what you see with what you draw.
2. Compare Distances Between Objects
Artists often look at how far apart objects are from one another. This helps them place each object in the correct location.
3. Compare Distances to the Edge of the Paper
Notice how close each object is to the edges of your drawing area. This can help you make your drawing the right size and keep everything in the correct position.
Why This Matters
Learning to compare sizes and distances helps you draw more accurately. Instead of guessing where things belong, you'll begin to measure with your eyes and place objects where they actually appear.
As you practice, you'll discover that careful observation can turn simple shapes into realistic drawings.
Enjoy this short 5-minute lesson and create a drawing! Look closely, compare distances, and challenge yourself to draw the objects the same size and in the same places that you see them.
Happy Drawing!
— Brenda Ellis Abbey
If you want more great drawing, painting, and sculpture lessons, check out our art books for Preschool through High School ages.
