Drawing is the foundation of the visual arts. That may seem a bold statement, but we believe it is true. No other artistic medium can cover up poor drawing. Even abstract work benefits greatly from basic drawing skill. The good news is that anyone can learn to draw. Of course, to be a competent draftsman you will have to work at it, but we believe you can begin to see satisfying results from the start.

Drawing may have a reputation for being difficult; many people have been discouraged by the idea that only the talented few can draw. But this reputation is not deserved. Drawing is a learnable skill.

The key to success with drawing is practicing one small concept at a time, as well as developing an understanding of the various drawing mediums and their unique characteristics. This book will show you each common drawing medium and how to take advantage of its special properties. It will also show you ways to simplify what you see so you can put it down on paper.

We have assembled this book from some of the best teaching on drawing that's available - everything the beginner needs to get off to a smooth start. In the first chapters you will find useful information about materials and techniques. The book goes on to teach basic principles that will help you draw, such as the properties of light, working from nature, interpreting tonal value, catching action, foreshortening, and drawing the human figure and face. The only additional ingredient you will need is practice and the knowledge that interest and effort will overcome any lack of that elusive quality we call "talent."