I'm a competely begginner in drawing. I watched sooo many videos on youtube that got me nothing but frustration and discouragement. Went thru lots of nonsense lessons that taught me nothing. Wasted so many days practicing stuff that didnt make much sense. It seems their videos are more for showing off rather than teach. I was thinking of giving up until I found your video. Just one video and I feel so confident and motivated to continue. You are an awesome instructor who actually shows you care that we understand and learn. Your explanations and instructions are the best. God bless your talent. Thanks for the enlightening tutorials!
Can't tell you how much I appreciate this channel. Been drawing my whole life off and on, decided to pursue art as a tattoo artist. Even though I can draw ink paint color pencil marker digital etc. I still always find myself watching videos on fundamentals (they can never be too practiced) I just found this channel and no one explains things in the way you do for example the video on major and minor masses in shape/form being the dictator for how the shadows are supposed to be constructed. I can already use shadows for depth but that video completely shifted my mindset with it and improved my skill. Funny how the smallest perspective shift or slight increase in understanding at a deeper level can make you take leaps in skill.
I can not believe how much my drawings have improved since learning about structure lines and going from simple shapes and ending with detailed drawings I always dreamed of being able to draw like this and it's now reality thank you for sharing your gift to the world!!!
My 6 year old daughter has just discovered your videos.And she's already hooked on watching; and hearing you tell us how to draw. She's even asking me some of tge stuff what they mean when you say them.
I really respect your work for a number of reasons. One of the main reasons being that its genuine in its goal and purpose without the need to include the obvious. Id say 90% or more videos that are labeled "tutorials or how to's" are nothing more than an artist looking to self promote by showing their work without a single word of instruction or explanation of anything. Just a video of them drawing. I've been drawing all my life and have learned many things over many years, but never considered imitation or mimicking another persons style a reason to consider that individual a teacher. As kids we try to copy an image and our talents are noticed at an early age by doing so, and as we learn more about conforming to reality in our artwork we improve. These so called tutorials that are anything but end up doing more harm than good in ways. So anyhow, fantastic videos thanks for the work you put into helping others. Peace
Yeah those videos are irritating. I am searching for information and find nothing but nonsense, which in many cases have nothing to do with what I was looking for.
@@alphonsodunn hi. thank you for your amazing tutorials. I want to watching start this list. after watching a video, how many hours should i practice before moving to the next one? and what methods should i use? should i copy drawings related to that subject?. thx again
I bought your book a few months ago (wonderful btw) and come back to your videos from time to time. I know this video is old, but I’m hoping you might still see this. This video has single-handedly revolutionized how I approach drawing. As you said, it’s simple stuff, but not everyone talks about it because of how simple it is. This really helped me and I’m really grateful for all your content!
I know this is an older video , but I have to thank you for this. I feel a little foolish for not realizing this, but when drawing head and face in an angled position, I haven’t been maintaining a perpendicular relationship where the vertical and horizontal contour lines meet. I didn’t realize that regardless of the perspective, that 90 degree relationship is always maintained. It has been throwing off the placement of all the facial features. This really helped me. Thank you 🙏🏼
Thank you so so much for this video! As a "self-taught" artist, I live and learn through artists' videos! I never knew construction using lines is a process people use! I don't usually comment but I just want to say 5 years later from your posting date - I find this super useful !
For those who know some of the 7 basic lines and not all; 1. Horizontal Lines - 2:10 2. Vertical Lines - 9:00 3. Perpendicular Lines - 14:45 4. Parallel lines - 20:03 5. Parallel Flowing Lines - 25:24 6. Center Lines - 27:16 7. Line of Axis 35:35
you´re the best, honestly. finding your videos is like finding holy grail for anyone trying to improve or even start from scratch on their own. thank you! I got asked to teach some friends how to draw, and didn´t have any idea how I would go about that, and then I discovered you. gonna recommend you to them asap.
This is the best drawing tutorial I’ve seen! I’m coming back to drawing after 30 years and your video has been a really thorough reintroduction to the lessons I learned in high school art class with much more detail and explanation. Just what I needed! I’ll definitely be watching more of your videos. Look forward to learning from you!
I finished an illustration degree last year and they didn't teach us how to draw, much like a fine art degree. We learnt how to think, develop concepts which are definitely valuable. However, most of us lacked the skills to bring them to their full potential. I'm glad you pointed out the ego barrier of thinking we're beyond learning the basic construction skills, i myself have been guilty of this. I had a few commissions which took longer because i had to learn the basics. It's unfortunate that most art college's don't provide this type of education. I've spent the greater part of this year going back to basics and it's had a huge effect already. Just requires a lot of patience but is totally worth it. Cheers man
Thanks so much! And you're right, its difficult to find programs that focus on the comprenhensive development of the artist, both conceptually and in terms of skill
Well put, do you know of any resources that focus on both? Would you consider doing a video on generating a concept and taking it from start to finish?
Years in art college didn't teach this. Now many years later I know why my drawing skills never reached its potential. Retired now, have plenty of time, start over. Never too late to have joy with drawing.
@@alphonsodunn hi. thank you for your amazing tutorials. I want to watching start this list. after watching a video, how many hours should i practice before moving to the next one? and what methods should i use? should i copy drawings related to that subject?
Dude you are blowing me away. I'm a beginner at 73 so grasping things does not come easily as it did at 20. BUT; I'm persistent. I have and am still making the mistakes you outlined. It's only been a month so I am truly a newbie. I'm not going to be hard on myself for my lack of skill. This is an outstanding tutorial A+++. It will take quite awhile to digest and learn all this but; now I have a reference line. Absolutely the best tutorial I have seen so far and I have watched many, many. There are some great and generous artist on utube and I am thankful to you all.I will probably in next 6 months watch this 30 times at least. THANKS AGAIN
I really wish a lot more people would see this. It would probably help a lot of beginners to realize what's stopping them from progressing. As always, top notch quality video Mr. Dunn!
I've been teaching myself how to draw for a decade nowadays besides a few books (well quite a few) I've learned everything I know from RUclips. If you can't get real face to face instruction RUclips is the best place to go. But over time I see the same topics covered again and again. Important topics, but the more advanced you get the more redundant some of the lessons become. Your lessons are some of the only ones that cover things I've never heard before. Every time I watch a video of yours it opens my eyes a little. This lesson, The Seven Basic Lines of Drawing, is one of those. I never thought of lines on this level and watching the video improved my artwork and how I place objects on the paper. You should almost patent the concept (no one owns art principles but the particular name and subject matter should belong to you). Thank you for showing your methods.
Got the book here in Germany. Dude, one of the best art instruction Books there are. No 1-2-3 step instructions, no long texts without examples, and an author who has mastery of what he is teaching.
its amazing how much the horizon line makes everything sit in space - i was wondering for a long time why my objects didnt seem to be in the same space
Very informative. I'm 71 years old, and this is the first time these methods have been explained to me. I'll save this video, and pass it on to my 10 year old granddaughter who is interested in drawing.
This video really helped clearing out this topic for me in a way any other tutorial ever has. Thank you, so, so much, oh my god. I've honestly been making the same mistakes you mentioned, over and over again for SO long and I couldn't figure out what I was doing wrong, and this is the first time someone explained in a way that made sense to me and it all just clicked. And it was so refreshing that you made all the 7 lines into one dinamic video, instead of making a one hour long video on just one subject, to the point it gets tiring and you end up more confused than when you began watching it. It all flowed so well and with such consistency. This video really helped me, thank you sooooo much, I really appreciate the effort you put in your videos! :) You're a great artist and I'm more than thankful for your channel!
OMG! This video is AMAZING. I just retired and am one of those people who believed I could never learn to draw. By the time I finished watching this video I was drawing cubes that actually looked like cubes. :) I just ordered your book from Amazon and can't wait to get started. Thanks so much. You're a good instructor.
hey alphonso i am a student of fine arts in greece at the last year of my studies,you made an amazing guide and found many information from your video that can improve my sketching ability.Thanks a lot i will surely follow you and share your videos with other students of my university .Keep up the amazing work.
I have been practicing drawing on and off for 6 years. It has taken a lot of practice (and facing fear of failure), but I am seeing genuine improvement, and while I have watched many videos and many channels on drawing, yours is my go-to. I return to your videos over and over again to study the primary principles. In addition to being a very talented artist, you have a clear, straightforward, and detailed yet simple approach that takes the intimidation out of the process even when working with difficult aspects. Thank you so much. Also just bought your book.
Wow, just wow. I am learning how to draw for about 4 months and it was always a mystery how people are drawing the head in different positions and angles. Now I know how they do it! Thank you so much, Alphonso, for your videos and great books!
I would just like to say a word of thanks. I am going through a really rough patch in my life and you have shown me so much. Drawing has always been something special to me. That being said I have a hard time drawing without a....muse, for lack of a better term/word. Anyway I’d lost mine long ago at the beginning of this.....marriage. But thanks to you I have found it again. So after 13 yrs away I’m back and have you to thank for it😬 Please understand if I could get your book I would do so in a heartbeat. However I’m afraid it will have to wait until I find a place and get back on my feet but I must say from what I’ve seen of it it looks like you hit a home run! Stay cool and keep up the awesome work!!
7 Basic Lines Important to use them as a guide, as reference, in the sense of drawing them in the abstract phase of a drawing. Using basic lines helps your drawings be structurally sound, regardless of the position things are in. You can use all 7 lines together, so each serves as a reference for the other. It’s important to be aware of all the lines and how they relate to each other. 1. Horizontal line: Establish grounding Place the horizon Align elements Create reference 2. Vertical lines Use horizontal and vertical reference lines as training wheels, doesn’t matter if this means that your drawing gets messy. (Realize when things are tilted, always visualize these lines even after taking your training wheels off) 3. Perpendicular lines 4. Parallel lines Draw boxes in 0 point perspective to train parallel lines 5. Parallel curved lines Important to maintain the consistency 6. Centerlines The centerline is in the center of the surface of an object, however from different perspectives this shifts and the centerline goes off center, although it is still in the center in the absolute sense of the object. When a form rotates, the centerline rotates as well. Drawing centerlines helps you imagine the position of things easily. It helps correctly align objects. 7. Line of Axis The line of axis passes through the structural center. Helps to determine the orientation, direction and position of a form, plus the relationship of its surface forms.
Alphonso Dunn I just found your videos. I’ve only watched three videos thus far, and realized I was making mistakes I was unaware of. You put so much into these videos, I can hardly believe they are free. I feel like I am in art school tuition free. So, I have ordered your book from Amazon. It is the least I can do for how much you have already helped me become better. I know I willlearn much more.
So well done! thanks so much you are very good at getting your point across. I've learnt more from this video than years of drawing myself. I will be buying your book for sure!
Your instruction is GREAT! I've started painting watercolors but have the hardest time with drawing; I struggle every time. this makes things so much clearer for me and yes, I'll practice..a LOT! Thanks so much.
What a revelation for me!! I can't thank you enough, but I will buy your books to express my gratitude and to learn as much as I can from you. I love that you are serious. Many RUclips teachers seem to think their students want to be entertained. I love that you focus on the lesson throughout. Thank you so much🙏
Wow... I've watched so many videos & read so many "How to's " about drawing and yes I've seen quite alot about practicing & studying lines and contour drawing but this is absolutely the most explanatory and easily understood instruction on lines, what they are, what they do and why understanding them is so important. It's very well put together and so full of knowledge that any artist needs as a foundation. THANK YOU!!!!!!!
Mr. Dunn. I not only bought one, but two of your books. I hope all who are watching your videos and tutorials will all try to get theirs too. Excellent piece of collection to have. I look forward to more books from you teacher Dunn.
Alphonso! I recently discovered your channel and I absolutely love it! You are incredibly didactic and I understand you perfectly well. Your urban sketching and figure drawing series have been incredibly helpful for me, specially when I am starting to make my own personal sketchbook. You gave me many new ideas and techniques that I will defintely apply when sketching my trip to South Africa in a bunch of weeks. Thank you, and keep up the amazing and talented work! I am getting your book delivered to Argentina soon :)
I also wanted to know if you could advice me in what order to watch the human figure drawings. Where should I start? There are so many good videos. Hope you can read this and help! Thanks in advance!
+Alphonso Dunn thanks! I'm mainly interested in human figure drawing, but I want to focus on outdoors. How should I watch your landscapes and scenery playlist? Thank you very much, and have a prosperous new year!
A very clear headed teacher and a thoroughly organised lecture. Could not stop until the end. Viewing and practicing regularly will bring out the best in any one.
I love ur videos. Just found ur book on Amazon India, ordered it and then traced your RUclips channel. I am heartfelt thankful to you. I myself is a PhD in chemistry and now I am trying to learn Art coz I love it so much but never had that teacher who will teach me the basics. I can draw but I can just draw without understanding a thing. As I started following you I feel I am on the right path. Thank you so much 🙏🏻
Excellent tutorial - very clear and explicit demonstration. Alphonso makes it seem so easy, if you know and practice the basic rules. Unfortunately many of us are self-taught and cannot see where we went wrong because we are not aware of the basics. This is where Alphonso comes in so that our drawings can become more refined and true to form. Thanks Alphonso for all your help and tips. (From one yardie to another.)
You made a statement I don't think I have ever heard made by other artists about drawing the eyes: that the eyes are not on a straight line but on a slant....amazing. Thanks so much.
You have presented more stuctural linformation to me than any other artist I have watched. I think your video on human anatomy is the clearest I've seen, including college level figure drawing classes. So well done, Alphonso. Have your book, too, and truly value it.
This has been one of the most helpful videos I have ever seen. I now realize what I have been missing. I'm trying to learn how to draw anatomy and it doesn't look terrible but realizing how the angles work on the face when it isn't straight on OMG my mind is blown. lol Thank you so so much for taking the time to create these videos. I really wish when you type in the search bar how to draw (anything) this would be the absolute first video that you HAVE to watch before being allowed to watch any other videos regarding drawing
you know what you could do? You should let us send you our drawings and then you'd make videos analysing the drawings and pointing out the mistakes and the solutions. Maybe redraw them with the correct technique. I'm certain lots of people would like to see you correct problems of proportion, perspective and light casting.
"Use horizon lines to establish the edge of a table...!" Wow I must have read one half dozen architectural books while trying to understand how to establish a ground plane... Hours I spent reading... I watch this clip And I get it 5 seconds
I love your videos because you show not only how to do certain thing but the wrong way to do certain things and it gives so much context and direction.
Aap ke samjane ka tarika bhut accha hai mai 1984 ki Bachelor of Arts ki student rhai hu after many years aap ki videos dekh ke again sketching start kar di thank you so much
THANKS!!! Your tutorials ARE EXCELLENT!!!! While you talk, you ALSO DEMONSTRATE, in REAL TIME, and this IS SUPER Helpful, to see how quick, and proficient One must become, thru MUCH PRACTICE!!!! I think that One must soon desire to be DRAWING CONSTANTLY, and ENDLESSLY CHALLENGING One's mind's eye to Put the vision, onto paper!!!! I have thought of doing many basic "drills", such as drawing circles, of various sizes, first drawing in Clockwise directions, then in Counter-clockwise directions, starting and ending each circle at different points around the clock! = Start the first one at 1 o'clock, the second circle at 2 o'clock, the 3rd at 3 o'clock, etc. then quickly One breaks thru personal "preferences and habits, and becomes capable of drawing portions of arcs, starting and ending at different points around the circle. Soon, One can draw Ellipses, then other shapes, but circles, and ellipses ARE SO Important!
Thank you so much. I purchased your workbook and guide and they are Amazing! Your teaching style and your knowledge from personal experience help me tremendously to orient my drawing and creativity into something that makes sense even when it is just for fun. Calm, meditative instruction. I like that very much.
i went to depression thanks to the lack of my self confidence. Dunn you save part of the life that i was throwing a way!! i have learned alot of these "7 basic lines of drawing" i like those training wheels.
I recently purchased your book and find it an easy book to follow! It was recommended in another post and I’m so glad I didn’t ignore it! Your videos are great and you give very detailed instructions, yet simple instructions, on how to draw. Thank you so much for sharing your knowledge and talent in order for others to learn!
I received your book in the mail a few days ago. My daughter and I plan to use it together. The book looks beautiful. I just decided to learn to draw last year and your videos have been extremely helpful. I'm excited to now have the option for your instruction both in video and the book.
I purchased your book before I knew anything about you. I based the purchase on reviews. It is a great resource that I still refer to from time to time.
this entire video blew my mind. every tip is sooo helpful in terms of establishing structure while drawing. thank you so much for making this; I have a feeling that I will be referring back to it many a time in the future.
Wow, just came across this. I can copy-draw like nobody's business but I could never actually draw and I could not figure out why. Just explaining the basics allows me to see what I could not see before, and now I understand a lot better. This was the best tutorial I have seen on drawing yet!!
Alphonso, I have just received your book, and - since I know you put a lot of time and energy into creating it - I just thought I should let you know that it immediately i inspires me. A beautiful product! I have to tell you that I really admire your passion for helping others. Thank you so much for your book and videos!
No soy dibujante, de hecho soy escultor de miniaturas, pero me ha tocado para un proyecto dibujar unas cosas y sí bien ya tenía una idea básica me puse a buscar aquello que no sabía y dí con tus tutoriales. Simples, puntuales y muy útiles, simplemente magníficos. Gracias por compartirnos tu conocimiento de manera tan desinteresada, muchos no lo hacen. Gracias!!!
Every word that comes out of his mouth is gold. I can't believe how little understanding or direction I had drawing before finding you, Alphonso! Btw, I love your name and you are another strong reason to name a baby Alphonso!
Thank you so much !... I was strugling to improve my drawing and didn't know what was wrong with me... Now I know !.. I have to take care of the rules you show in this video ! I'm glad having discovered your channel ! I have found a great teacher, thank you !
The is a tremendous help! I've never heard it taught and demonstrated with such clarity! Can't wait to get back to my drawing board to start applying these techniques!
i have never been in the school of Arts but i drow picture that is good t me and to others ,but this makes me to look for a teacher and you are a perfect teacher .God bless you .
You've inspired me to start drawing again and try ink which is something I always wanted and had no idea how to start, will be purchasing your book in these days cheers and kudos on your skills
I was introduced to you by The Mind of Watercolor channel. He is very impressed with your books and skills, so here I am, a 66 year old beginner. PS I bought both your books.
This video made me conscious of WHY lot of things that were going wrong with my sketches. I didn't really think about the reference lines I was using but now that I've seen this video, I'm using them to fix a lot of mistakes early on. Thanks!
Wow just watched this video for the second time. this time with pencil and paper drawing as you drew. I learned so much, even my doodles have gotten better. You obviously know what you are doing and can explain it. A rare combination. Thank you.
Best teaching video about lines I have watched and I have watched a lot. You explain it better than anyone. I'm sure your book will be just as informative. It arrives in 2 days. Thanks for being here on RUclips and keep producing books. I'll be there to buy them. I have one daughter and 2 grandchildren that will love them.
I didn't watch this video but, I went ahead and purchased the book. I'm that confident in you and your amazing talent and teaching ability. Thanks as always for sharing.
+Alphonso Dunn You're most welcome. I can't wait to get the book. You should check out Adebanji Alade, he's part of the Urban Sketchers, I think you to would get on together well. Check him out on his RUclips channel.
You, Sir, have some serious pedagogical chops. Truly. You're not just a talented artist, but a really unusually talented educator. (I use the word "talent" with some reluctance--as it seems to imply some sort of magical gift, rather than someone who has devoted a lot of time and hard work to developing their skills. I'm sure it's the result of a lot of work with only a dash of magic thrown in. Grateful for it, in any case). Thank you for sharing your gifts so that we can all work in a smarter way to develop ours.
Hi, Alphonso! I'm back to let you know Amazon just sent me your book. YAY! I couldn't wait to dive in. After browsing, I turned back to the beginning. Ordinarily I don't write notes in my books (as I like to preserve them for as long as possible), but I couldn't resist the personal, conversational tone in your writing and dove right in. As I scribbled notes in the margins in response to one point or another, I began to feel like you were there in the room sitting across the table from me like an old friend. I have so enjoyed your videos, Alphonse, and now I'm devouring your book. I'm particularly pleased you included a special chapter on balance which further expounds the principles outlined in your video "How to sketch and draw people Part 2, Gesture Drawing!" Your demo is so simple, clear and concise. It made sense and really works!!! For the first time in many, many frustrating years, gesture drawing has FINALLY become clear to me and now I can grasp this elusive concept and execute a gesture drawing with ease. Thank you so much! Still hoping there's a way to get my copy autographed! :) -- All Best Wishes for much Success.
Thats soo awesome!! Gesture drawing is one of the most challenging aspects of figure drawing so i'm happy youre getting a handle of it. Hopefully soon I'll be able to find a way to sign it for u
Wow! I didn’t realise that a video about lines could be so engrossing! Thanks very much for sharing this great information . I look forward to watching the next one
You're sucha good teacher! I've been away from drawing for at least 6-7 years and it's so intimidating to get back in there. This chill vibe and clear advice feel reassuring somehow, and makes me want to get back to my fundamentals, find my groove again. :') thanks for being here
I'm a competely begginner in drawing. I watched sooo many videos on youtube that got me nothing but frustration and discouragement. Went thru lots of nonsense lessons that taught me nothing. Wasted so many days practicing stuff that didnt make much sense. It seems their videos are more for showing off rather than teach. I was thinking of giving up until I found your video. Just one video and I feel so confident and motivated to continue. You are an awesome instructor who actually shows you care that we understand and learn. Your explanations and instructions are the best. God bless your talent. Thanks for the enlightening tutorials!
Well done, in sharing this, and yourself with the world. Keep up the amazing work. Your an inspiration and a friend to many. 🏆👑🙏🏽
“Beginner” speller too😂
You like penis
Can't tell you how much I appreciate this channel. Been drawing my whole life off and on, decided to pursue art as a tattoo artist. Even though I can draw ink paint color pencil marker digital etc. I still always find myself watching videos on fundamentals (they can never be too practiced) I just found this channel and no one explains things in the way you do for example the video on major and minor masses in shape/form being the dictator for how the shadows are supposed to be constructed. I can already use shadows for depth but that video completely shifted my mindset with it and improved my skill. Funny how the smallest perspective shift or slight increase in understanding at a deeper level can make you take leaps in skill.
I can not believe how much my drawings have improved since learning about structure lines and going from simple shapes and ending with detailed drawings I always dreamed of being able to draw like this and it's now reality thank you for sharing your gift to the world!!!
My 6 year old daughter has just discovered your videos.And she's already hooked on watching; and hearing you tell us how to draw. She's even asking me some of tge stuff what they mean when you say them.
+Andrea Clarke lol soooo cool! Thanks for sharing it with her. Tell her I said she'll be awesome! lol
She is 12 now!
@@kil7t yup and she is on instagram and has 100k followers for her great art thanks to this vid
@@Som3D
Good for her
Can i get her Instagram username
I really respect your work for a number of reasons. One of the main reasons being that its genuine in its goal and purpose without the need to include the obvious. Id say 90% or more videos that are labeled "tutorials or how to's" are nothing more than an artist looking to self promote by showing their work without a single word of instruction or explanation of anything. Just a video of them drawing. I've been drawing all my life and have learned many things over many years, but never considered imitation or mimicking another persons style a reason to consider that individual a teacher. As kids we try to copy an image and our talents are noticed at an early age by doing so, and as we learn more about conforming to reality in our artwork we improve. These so called tutorials that are anything but end up doing more harm than good in ways. So anyhow, fantastic videos thanks for the work you put into helping others. Peace
No worries at all. Thanks so much and I totally understand where you're coming from
100%
This is so true. I always wonder why they call them tutorial but they are not really tutoring ! So sad. I appreciate this video
Yeah those videos are irritating. I am searching for information and find nothing but nonsense, which in many cases have nothing to do with what I was looking for.
@@alphonsodunn hi. thank you for your amazing tutorials. I want to watching start this list. after watching a video, how many hours should i practice before moving to the next one? and what methods should i use? should i copy drawings related to that subject?. thx again
I bought your book a few months ago (wonderful btw) and come back to your videos from time to time. I know this video is old, but I’m hoping you might still see this. This video has single-handedly revolutionized how I approach drawing. As you said, it’s simple stuff, but not everyone talks about it because of how simple it is. This really helped me and I’m really grateful for all your content!
I know this is an older video , but I have to thank you for this. I feel a little foolish for not realizing this, but when drawing head and face in an angled position, I haven’t been maintaining a perpendicular relationship where the vertical and horizontal contour lines meet. I didn’t realize that regardless of the perspective, that 90 degree relationship is always maintained. It has been throwing off the placement of all the facial features. This really helped me. Thank you 🙏🏼
You're honestly such a blessing for a beginner like me. I truly appreciate it. Thanks man
youre very welcome :-)
👍👍👍👍👍👍👑
Agreed!! Thank you!!
Super helpful! Thank you :)
Thank you so so much for this video! As a "self-taught" artist, I live and learn through artists' videos! I never knew construction using lines is a process people use! I don't usually comment but I just want to say 5 years later from your posting date - I find this super useful !
For those who know some of the 7 basic lines and not all;
1. Horizontal Lines - 2:10
2. Vertical Lines - 9:00
3. Perpendicular Lines - 14:45
4. Parallel lines - 20:03
5. Parallel Flowing Lines - 25:24
6. Center Lines - 27:16
7. Line of Axis 35:35
👍🏾
Thank you for sharing. I wish I had this information earlier. It makes so much sense. Hopefully I will be able to use it to improve my portraits.
Eriasu H thank u so mch
was trying to recap everything... heheh thanks
Thanks fam
you´re the best, honestly. finding your videos is like finding holy grail for anyone trying to improve or even start from scratch on their own. thank you! I got asked to teach some friends how to draw, and didn´t have any idea how I would go about that, and then I discovered you. gonna recommend you to them asap.
Thanks much : )
This is the best drawing tutorial I’ve seen! I’m coming back to drawing after 30 years and your video has been a really thorough reintroduction to the lessons I learned in high school art class with much more detail and explanation. Just what I needed! I’ll definitely be watching more of your videos. Look forward to learning from you!
I finished an illustration degree last year and they didn't teach us how to draw, much like a fine art degree. We learnt how to think, develop concepts which are definitely valuable. However, most of us lacked the skills to bring them to their full potential. I'm glad you pointed out the ego barrier of thinking we're beyond learning the basic construction skills, i myself have been guilty of this. I had a few commissions which took longer because i had to learn the basics. It's unfortunate that most art college's don't provide this type of education. I've spent the greater part of this year going back to basics and it's had a huge effect already. Just requires a lot of patience but is totally worth it. Cheers man
Thanks so much! And you're right, its difficult to find programs that focus on the comprenhensive development of the artist, both conceptually and in terms of skill
Well put, do you know of any resources that focus on both? Would you consider doing a video on generating a concept and taking it from start to finish?
Years in art college didn't teach this. Now many years later I know why my drawing skills never reached its potential. Retired now, have plenty of time, start over. Never too late to have joy with drawing.
@@alphonsodunn hi. thank you for your amazing tutorials. I want to watching start this list. after watching a video, how many hours should i practice before moving to the next one? and what methods should i use? should i copy drawings related to that subject?
Dude you are blowing me away. I'm a beginner at 73 so grasping things does not come easily as it did at 20. BUT; I'm persistent. I have and am still making the mistakes you outlined. It's only been a month so I am truly a newbie. I'm not going to be hard on myself for my lack of skill. This is an outstanding tutorial A+++. It will take quite awhile to digest and learn all this but; now I have a reference line. Absolutely the best tutorial I have seen so far and I have watched many, many. There are some great and generous artist on utube and I am thankful to you all.I will probably in next 6 months watch this 30 times at least. THANKS AGAIN
Very welcome! : ) keep learning
I really wish a lot more people would see this. It would probably help a lot of beginners to realize what's stopping them from progressing. As always, top notch quality video Mr. Dunn!
Thanks much! They helped me a whole lot too 😊
I've been teaching myself how to draw for a decade nowadays besides a few books (well quite a few) I've learned everything I know from RUclips. If you can't get real face to face instruction RUclips is the best place to go. But over time I see the same topics covered again and again. Important topics, but the more advanced you get the more redundant some of the lessons become. Your lessons are some of the only ones that cover things I've never heard before. Every time I watch a video of yours it opens my eyes a little. This lesson, The Seven Basic Lines of Drawing, is one of those. I never thought of lines on this level and watching the video improved my artwork and how I place objects on the paper. You should almost patent the concept (no one owns art principles but the particular name and subject matter should belong to you). Thank you for showing your methods.
Very welcome. And thanks much. Glad you found it useful
Having you explain these lines together in one vid is "very important" to my art life. Thank you!
Got the book here in Germany.
Dude, one of the best art instruction Books there are. No 1-2-3 step instructions,
no long texts without examples, and an author who has mastery of what he is teaching.
+Johannes Knop thanks so much for supporting it! I really appreciate that
Fantastic teacher. I love these videos.
thanks
I discovered your tutorials just recently, mid 2022, and you are such a good teacher. I love the way you show the basics. Thank you Alphonso!
THE MOST informative on the whole RUclips channel
O_O
Wow man finally got someone who genuinely helps
its amazing how much the horizon line makes everything sit in space - i was wondering for a long time why my objects didnt seem to be in the same space
Very informative. I'm 71 years old, and this is the first time these methods have been explained to me. I'll save this video, and pass it on to my 10 year old granddaughter who is interested in drawing.
This video really helped clearing out this topic for me in a way any other tutorial ever has. Thank you, so, so much, oh my god. I've honestly been making the same mistakes you mentioned, over and over again for SO long and I couldn't figure out what I was doing wrong, and this is the first time someone explained in a way that made sense to me and it all just clicked. And it was so refreshing that you made all the 7 lines into one dinamic video, instead of making a one hour long video on just one subject, to the point it gets tiring and you end up more confused than when you began watching it. It all flowed so well and with such consistency. This video really helped me, thank you sooooo much, I really appreciate the effort you put in your videos! :) You're a great artist and I'm more than thankful for your channel!
OMG! This video is AMAZING. I just retired and am one of those people who believed I could never learn to draw. By the time I finished watching this video I was drawing cubes that actually looked like cubes. :) I just ordered your book from Amazon and can't wait to get started. Thanks so much. You're a good instructor.
Thats awesome. Thanks so much
hey alphonso i am a student of fine arts in greece at the last year of my studies,you made an amazing guide and found many information from your video that can improve my sketching ability.Thanks a lot i will surely follow you and share your videos with other students of my university .Keep up the amazing work.
I have been practicing drawing on and off for 6 years. It has taken a lot of practice (and facing fear of failure), but I am seeing genuine improvement, and while I have watched many videos and many channels on drawing, yours is my go-to. I return to your videos over and over again to study the primary principles. In addition to being a very talented artist, you have a clear, straightforward, and detailed yet simple approach that takes the intimidation out of the process even when working with difficult aspects. Thank you so much. Also just bought your book.
thanks so much! Glad I can help and dont be afraid of failure. Take your learning in strides and appreciate the small steps : )
Wow, just wow. I am learning how to draw for about 4 months and it was always a mystery how people are drawing the head in different positions and angles. Now I know how they do it! Thank you so much, Alphonso, for your videos and great books!
I would just like to say a word of thanks. I am going through a really rough patch in my life and you have shown me so much. Drawing has always been something special to me. That being said I have a hard time drawing without a....muse, for lack of a better term/word. Anyway I’d lost mine long ago at the beginning of this.....marriage.
But thanks to you I have found it again. So after 13 yrs away I’m back and have you to thank for it😬
Please understand if I could get your book I would do so in a heartbeat. However I’m afraid it will have to wait until I find a place and get back on my feet but I must say from what I’ve seen of it it looks like you hit a home run!
Stay cool and keep up the awesome work!!
7 Basic Lines
Important to use them as a guide, as reference, in the sense of drawing them in the abstract phase of a drawing. Using basic lines helps your drawings be structurally sound, regardless of the position things are in.
You can use all 7 lines together, so each serves as a reference for the other. It’s important to be aware of all the lines and how they relate to each other.
1. Horizontal line:
Establish grounding
Place the horizon
Align elements
Create reference
2. Vertical lines
Use horizontal and vertical reference lines as training wheels, doesn’t matter if this means that your drawing gets messy. (Realize when things are tilted, always visualize these lines even after taking your training wheels off)
3. Perpendicular lines
4. Parallel lines
Draw boxes in 0 point perspective to train parallel lines
5. Parallel curved lines
Important to maintain the consistency
6. Centerlines
The centerline is in the center of the surface of an object, however from different perspectives this shifts and the centerline goes off center, although it is still in the center in the absolute sense of the object. When a form rotates, the centerline rotates as well.
Drawing centerlines helps you imagine the position of things easily.
It helps correctly align objects.
7. Line of Axis
The line of axis passes through the structural center.
Helps to determine the orientation, direction and position of a form, plus the relationship of its surface forms.
Alphonso Dunn I just found your videos. I’ve only watched three videos thus far, and realized I was making mistakes I was unaware of. You put so much into these videos, I can hardly believe they are free. I feel like I am in art school tuition free. So, I have ordered your book from Amazon. It is the least I can do for how much you have already helped me become better. I know I willlearn much more.
Very welcome
So well done! thanks so much you are very good at getting your point across. I've learnt more from this video than years of drawing myself. I will be buying your book for sure!
Glad I could help
Your instruction is GREAT! I've started painting watercolors but have the hardest time with drawing; I struggle every time. this makes things so much clearer for me and yes, I'll practice..a LOT! Thanks so much.
HI Alphanso Dunn, I got the Book shipped to India, its amazing. Thank you.
+Prabhu Ram wow! Thanks so much! Glad you enjoy it
What a revelation for me!! I can't thank you enough, but I will buy your books to express my gratitude and to learn as much as I can from you. I love that you are serious. Many RUclips teachers seem to think their students want to be entertained. I love that you focus on the lesson throughout. Thank you so much🙏
Thanks so much
Thank you for this excellent tutorial!
+gnewt75 very welcome
shading in what sense..there are a few tutorials I have here
+Dora 4 I need to work on my shading also..... somehow it just does not come out right!
Saw another video by you and ordered your book. After watching this video I’m even more excited for it to come. This video alone has taught me so much
I like the way you explain yourself and it's entertaining to watch you draw.
Wow... I've watched so many videos & read so many "How to's " about drawing and yes I've seen quite alot about practicing & studying lines and contour drawing but this is absolutely the most explanatory and easily understood instruction on lines, what they are, what they do and why understanding them is so important. It's very well put together and so full of knowledge that any artist needs as a foundation. THANK YOU!!!!!!!
videos are so good buying your book tomorrow!
Thanks so much! I appreciate the support
Mr. Dunn.
I not only bought one, but two of your books. I hope all who are watching your videos and tutorials will all try to get theirs too.
Excellent piece of collection to have. I look forward to more books from you teacher Dunn.
+Andrea Clarke lol Thank you!!
Alphonso! I recently discovered your channel and I absolutely love it! You are incredibly didactic and I understand you perfectly well. Your urban sketching and figure drawing series have been incredibly helpful for me, specially when I am starting to make my own personal sketchbook. You gave me many new ideas and techniques that I will defintely apply when sketching my trip to South Africa in a bunch of weeks. Thank you, and keep up the amazing and talented work! I am getting your book delivered to Argentina soon :)
I also wanted to know if you could advice me in what order to watch the human figure drawings. Where should I start? There are so many good videos. Hope you can read this and help! Thanks in advance!
+Ignacio Agote Robertson thanks so much! I hope you'll create lots of beautiful drawings!
+Ignacio Agote Robertson not sure what videos you're looking at
+Alphonso Dunn thanks! I'm mainly interested in human figure drawing, but I want to focus on outdoors. How should I watch your landscapes and scenery playlist? Thank you very much, and have a prosperous new year!
the drawing fundamentals playlists has some valuable content, as well as the landscape and scenery playlists...but just browse through both
A very clear headed teacher and a thoroughly organised lecture. Could not stop until the end. Viewing and practicing regularly will bring out the best in any one.
Congratulations for your book! I'm a long time subscriber and looking forward to buy it! Keep it up Alph ;)
+Vazul Swierkiewicz thank you! :-)
I love ur videos. Just found ur book on Amazon India, ordered it and then traced your RUclips channel. I am heartfelt thankful to you. I myself is a PhD in chemistry and now I am trying to learn Art coz I love it so much but never had that teacher who will teach me the basics. I can draw but I can just draw without understanding a thing. As I started following you I feel I am on the right path.
Thank you so much 🙏🏻
Really helpful video ! I will receive your book as a New Year present :) !!
+Vexx Love your stuff as well, keep drawing!
+Vexx yayy! I hoep you'll love it! :-)
+Alphonso Dunn Thanks much! :-)
It's vexx😱❤
Vexx I don’t get why you don’t have many likes that just a bit sad ;-;
Excellent tutorial - very clear and explicit demonstration. Alphonso makes it seem so easy, if you know and practice the basic rules. Unfortunately many of us are self-taught and cannot see where we went wrong because we are not aware of the basics. This is where Alphonso comes in so that our drawings can become more refined and true to form. Thanks Alphonso for all your help and tips. (From one yardie to another.)
Zeen! Thanks so much :-)
This is a “Very Important” video for any beginner
very very very important
A cogent, structured account of basic principles with plenty of examples and explanation as to the what and why. Well done Alphonso.
"If the knee bends backwards..."
*trails off into the silent flashback of every skate-boarding accident watched on RUclips"
You made a statement I don't think I have ever heard made by other artists about drawing the eyes: that the eyes are not on a straight line but on a slant....amazing. Thanks so much.
Thanks. Very welcome
Sir you are amazing
Keep up the good work :)
thanks much : )
You have presented more stuctural linformation to me than any other artist I have watched. I think your video on human anatomy is the clearest I've seen, including college level figure drawing classes. So well done, Alphonso. Have your book, too, and truly value it.
Thanks so much
omg you are great. Feel like I'm back in class.
thanks : )
This has been one of the most helpful videos I have ever seen. I now realize what I have been missing. I'm trying to learn how to draw anatomy and it doesn't look terrible but realizing how the angles work on the face when it isn't straight on OMG my mind is blown. lol Thank you so so much for taking the time to create these videos. I really wish when you type in the search bar how to draw (anything) this would be the absolute first video that you HAVE to watch before being allowed to watch any other videos regarding drawing
you know what you could do? You should let us send you our drawings and then you'd make videos analysing the drawings and pointing out the mistakes and the solutions. Maybe redraw them with the correct technique. I'm certain lots of people would like to see you correct problems of proportion, perspective and light casting.
tasfa10
i would totally watch that.
tasfa10 you can do it on photoshop
It would certainly be beneficial to us tasfa10 if he did that but it would be a hell of a job for him. I think it would be in fact humanly impossible.
Most definitely will do that : )
lol
You, Alphonso, are a gem. I'm grateful to have found you, and have learned much from you.
🙏
"Use horizon lines to establish the edge of a table...!"
Wow
I must have read one half dozen architectural books while trying to understand how to establish a ground plane...
Hours I spent reading...
I watch this clip
And I get it 5 seconds
🙂🙂🙂
Glad I could help
I love your videos because you show not only how to do certain thing but the wrong way to do certain things and it gives so much context and direction.
: ) glad you find them useful
That book looks _excellent_. I've been a subscriber for a long while now, and I really wanna get that book. Hoe expensive is it?
Malachy Lewin $18 on Amazon
Aap ke samjane ka tarika bhut accha hai mai 1984 ki Bachelor of Arts ki student rhai hu after many years aap ki videos dekh ke again sketching start kar di thank you so much
Thanks for the tip im better at drawing now :)
Glad I could help: )
For the first time, Alfonso, I am able to comprehend what does not come naturally to me- because of you! Thank you!!
🙂🙏
THANKS!!! Your tutorials ARE EXCELLENT!!!! While you talk, you ALSO DEMONSTRATE, in REAL TIME, and this IS SUPER Helpful, to see how quick, and proficient One must become, thru MUCH PRACTICE!!!! I think that One must soon desire to be DRAWING CONSTANTLY, and ENDLESSLY CHALLENGING One's mind's eye to Put the vision, onto paper!!!! I have thought of doing many basic "drills", such as drawing circles, of various sizes, first drawing in Clockwise directions, then in Counter-clockwise directions, starting and ending each circle at different points around the clock! = Start the first one at 1 o'clock, the second circle at 2 o'clock, the 3rd at 3 o'clock, etc. then quickly One breaks thru personal "preferences and habits, and becomes capable of drawing portions of arcs, starting and ending at different points around the circle. Soon, One can draw Ellipses, then other shapes, but circles, and ellipses ARE SO Important!
Thank you so much. I purchased your workbook and guide and they are Amazing! Your teaching style and your knowledge from personal experience help me tremendously to orient my drawing and creativity into something that makes sense even when it is just for fun. Calm, meditative instruction. I like that very much.
i went to depression thanks to the lack of my self confidence. Dunn you save part of the life that i was throwing a way!! i have learned alot of these "7 basic lines of drawing" i like those training wheels.
I'm always getting this little enlightment moments when I finally understand something. Your tutorials are awesome and very helpful!
Thanks much, and youre very welcome : )
I recently purchased your book and find it an easy book to follow! It was recommended in another post and I’m so glad I didn’t ignore it! Your videos are great and you give very detailed instructions, yet simple instructions, on how to draw. Thank you so much for sharing your knowledge and talent in order for others to learn!
thanks so much : )
We
I received your book in the mail a few days ago. My daughter and I plan to use it together. The book looks beautiful. I just decided to learn to draw last year and your videos have been extremely helpful. I'm excited to now have the option for your instruction both in video and the book.
+NedraZeall Thanks so much for supporting! It means alot :-)
I purchased your book before I knew anything about you. I based the purchase on reviews. It is a great resource that I still refer to from time to time.
this entire video blew my mind. every tip is sooo helpful in terms of establishing structure while drawing. thank you so much for making this; I have a feeling that I will be referring back to it many a time in the future.
Wow, just came across this. I can copy-draw like nobody's business but I could never actually draw and I could not figure out why. Just explaining the basics allows me to see what I could not see before, and now I understand a lot better. This was the best tutorial I have seen on drawing yet!!
Glad it helped : )
You’re so good at teaching to see, man. Teaching perspective. I’m blown away. Thank you so much for this content! Unbelievable.
Alphonso, I have just received your book, and - since I know you put a lot of time and energy into creating it - I just thought I should let you know that it immediately i inspires me. A beautiful product! I have to tell you that I really admire your passion for helping others. Thank you so much for your book and videos!
+beintung Thanks so much! I really appreciate the support!
No soy dibujante, de hecho soy escultor de miniaturas, pero me ha tocado para un proyecto dibujar unas cosas y sí bien ya tenía una idea básica me puse a buscar aquello que no sabía y dí con tus tutoriales. Simples, puntuales y muy útiles, simplemente magníficos. Gracias por compartirnos tu conocimiento de manera tan desinteresada, muchos no lo hacen. Gracias!!!
+Marcos Lescano Thanks so much!
I must say that you are one of the best art tutors here on RUclips ... can't wait to get a job so I can buy your book!
Thanks so much
Every word that comes out of his mouth is gold. I can't believe how little understanding or direction I had drawing before finding you, Alphonso! Btw, I love your name and you are another strong reason to name a baby Alphonso!
Thanks so much! 😍
Thank you so much !... I was strugling to improve my drawing and didn't know what was wrong with me... Now I know !.. I have to take care of the rules you show in this video ! I'm glad having discovered your channel ! I have found a great teacher, thank you !
+Eric Duchesnes youre very welcome
The is a tremendous help! I've never heard it taught and demonstrated with such clarity! Can't wait to get back to my drawing board to start applying these techniques!
Glad I could help
just bought your book, thank you a ton, its a treasure trove and thank you for all the free videos on youtube it is a serious blessing lol
This is amazing! SO HELPFUL! I will do this lesson over and over. Thank you so much. You are amazing!
i have never been in the school of Arts but i drow picture that is good t me and to others ,but this makes me to look for a teacher and you are a perfect teacher .God bless you .
You've inspired me to start drawing again and try ink which is something I always wanted and had no idea how to start, will be purchasing your book in these days cheers and kudos on your skills
I was introduced to you by The Mind of Watercolor channel. He is very impressed with your books and skills, so here I am, a 66 year old beginner. PS I bought both your books.
when i begin working the book is one of these first things i will buy,to support alphonso,and it also will be my first job ever
good luck! And thank you : )
This video made me conscious of WHY lot of things that were going wrong with my sketches.
I didn't really think about the reference lines I was using but now that I've seen this video, I'm using them to fix a lot of mistakes early on.
Thanks!
+dead_zombies Thats the plan! Glad its helping
Wow just watched this video for the second time. this time with pencil and paper drawing as you drew. I learned so much, even my doodles have gotten better. You obviously know what you are doing and can explain it. A rare combination. Thank you.
Thanks : )
You teach so in depth! I love how you explain things to someone like me who knows NOTHING about drawing. I'm so glad I found your videos!
Yayyyy glad you find them useful
I just started to draw last week. And I ordered your other book today...the workbook. I look forward to developing my talent.
Best teaching video about lines I have watched and I have watched a lot. You explain it better than anyone. I'm sure your book will be just as informative. It arrives in 2 days. Thanks for being here on RUclips and keep producing books. I'll be there to buy them. I have one daughter and 2 grandchildren that will love them.
Thanks so much!
man.. i have so much to learn.. i feel like i could watch this video over and over and still learn something new every time...
I didn't watch this video but, I went ahead and purchased the book. I'm that confident in you and your amazing talent and teaching ability. Thanks as always for sharing.
+Red Gemini Arts thanks much! I appreciate the support :-)
+Alphonso Dunn You're most welcome. I can't wait to get the book. You should check out Adebanji Alade, he's part of the Urban Sketchers, I think you to would get on together well. Check him out on his RUclips channel.
learning to draw during this quarantine. this by far is the best tutorial. you really teach not show off. thank you
You, Sir, have some serious pedagogical chops. Truly. You're not just a talented artist, but a really unusually talented educator. (I use the word "talent" with some reluctance--as it seems to imply some sort of magical gift, rather than someone who has devoted a lot of time and hard work to developing their skills. I'm sure it's the result of a lot of work with only a dash of magic thrown in. Grateful for it, in any case). Thank you for sharing your gifts so that we can all work in a smarter way to develop ours.
I find this tutorial very helpful to brush up drawing faces regarding parallel lines. Thank you!
Hi, Alphonso! I'm back to let you know Amazon just sent me your book. YAY! I couldn't wait to dive in. After browsing, I turned back to the beginning. Ordinarily I don't write notes in my books (as I like to preserve them for as long as possible), but I couldn't resist the personal, conversational tone in your writing and dove right in. As I scribbled notes in the margins in response to one point or another, I began to feel like you were there in the room sitting across the table from me like an old friend.
I have so enjoyed your videos, Alphonse, and now I'm devouring your book. I'm particularly pleased you included a special chapter on balance which further expounds the principles outlined in your video "How to sketch and draw people Part 2, Gesture Drawing!" Your demo is so simple, clear and concise. It made sense and really works!!! For the first time in many, many frustrating years, gesture drawing has FINALLY become clear to me and now I can grasp this elusive concept and execute a gesture drawing with ease. Thank you so much! Still hoping there's a way to get my copy autographed! :) -- All Best Wishes for much Success.
Thats soo awesome!! Gesture drawing is one of the most challenging aspects of figure drawing so i'm happy youre getting a handle of it. Hopefully soon I'll be able to find a way to sign it for u
Thank you, Alphonso! That would be great. :) I hope you have a wonderful day.
thank you! I hope you have an even better one :-)
Wow! I didn’t realise that a video about lines could be so engrossing! Thanks very much for sharing this great information . I look forward to watching the next one
Bought book Highly recommended. I am using it in conjunction with your videos which are wonderful, wonderful, wonderful. Thank you so much.
You're sucha good teacher! I've been away from drawing for at least 6-7 years and it's so intimidating to get back in there. This chill vibe and clear advice feel reassuring somehow, and makes me want to get back to my fundamentals, find my groove again. :') thanks for being here