Techniques & Mediums: The Gateway to Exploration

After some degree of good drawing and composition is established, we encourage students to experiment in several mediums - even if it means stepping outside of their familiar comfort zones. Many times, the introduction of a new technique results in an "ah ha!" moment for the artist when new discoveries are made. CCAD founder, Joseph Canzani used to call these "happy accidents" and anyone who has ever aspired to be an artist can relate to what he meant.

 

Even in a pencil drawing, there can be varying degrees of soft and hard leads, graphite sticks, and controlled blending. We always try to find the right mediums and techniques to match the style of the work the student is producing.

 

All the work on this page is produced by students of Art Post 407 using different mediums. The top right piece is done in pencil; the piece to the left is chalk pastel; and the bottom art is done in acrylic paint. While mediums are an essential part of the final presentation, it is important that the student understand the importance of strong drawing before venturing into the candy land of techniques. Very rarely does a technique save a poor drawing.