Aim: To practice drawing the face and to explore self-image
Materials: Mirror, large-size sketchbook or paper and drawing board, drawing materials (ink, graphite, or charcoal)
Time: 2 hours
Set Up: Use as large a mirror as you have available, ideally a dresser mirror. A tall kitchen stool may be high enough for comfortable drawing using a bathroom mirror. Preferably, work on paper larger than size A4 to allow for generous mark-making and expression. Use a portable light source such as a lamp or flashlight to improve lighting if necessary. Consider the points discussed earlier in this chapter, and try to use pose, expression, lighting, and environment creatively.
Start Drawing: Begin with a structural drawing, establishing correct proportions, then begin contour drawing. Be sure to line up the eyes correctly. Sketch lightly at first, then develop the drawing. Quickly establish some strong darks once you begin modeling the form. You can use strong directional hatching or shaded tonal value drawing, whichever you prefer.
