Constructive Drawing:  A drawing method that teaches the construction of the figure from simple shapes.

Constructive Drawing strengthens sketching skills.  In theory, when taught as part of an expanded drawing curriculum that focuses on developing the acute observation skills integral to the sight-size method, as well as the study of anatomical drawing, constructive drawing should increase the student's ability to invent figures from the imagination and/or from visual memory.

The theory is that the added skill builds confidence when attempting to develop a complex multi-figural disegno, thereby encouraging greater experimentation before committing to the final drawing or cartoon.

The inclusion of constructive drawing, geometrical drawing and an increased emphasis on gesture as part of a traditional atelier curriculum would seek to encourage the creation of more complex, narrative compositions as well as provide the tools for greater mastery of draftsmanship.

Adrian Gottlieb
GottliebStudios.com/Classical_Glossary

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