What are “Complex Shapes”? When you combine several simple shapes you will have created a more complex and detailed image. You are drawing and “seeing” at a more advanced level when you can analyze an object down to its simple shapes. Every child discovers when you combine a large square, a triangle, a rectangle, and a small square together you drew a HOUSE! For a child, that’s a complex shape.
Grab a bottle, a jar, a teapot, anything with an interesting shape. Drawing from real life and actual objects is very different than drawing from a 2D picture. Break it down to its simplest geometric shapes (dark pencil lines on my example) Consider the size and the placement of each shape, compared to the others. When you’ve finished, go back and look at the actual lines on the object and make those changes in your drawing (red lines on my example); curves, angles, etc.
Next, try something more “organic”, such as a flower or plant. Start with basic, open shapes. Compare size and placement of the plant parts. Are they overlapping in places? You wouldn’t see the entire shape if they do overlap. This is as much an exercise in “seeing” what’s in front of you, as it is a drawing practice. After laying out the shapes, again go back and define the lines to appear more natural. This is just the beginning! Gather some of your favorite things. Coming up next, we’re going to draw a “Still Life”.
