9.5 Sighting techniques
6 min read•august 19, 2024
are essential tools for artists to accurately capture proportions, angles, and relationships in their drawings. These methods train the eye to observe subjects objectively, allowing for more precise and realistic representations on paper or canvas.
From the to and , artists employ various techniques to analyze and reproduce visual information. Tools like pencils, plumb lines, and viewfinders aid in this process, helping artists create more accurate and visually compelling artwork.
Importance of sighting techniques
- Sighting techniques enable artists to accurately observe and transfer proportions, angles, and relationships from a subject onto paper or canvas
- Help train the artist's eye to see the subject more objectively and analytically rather than relying solely on assumptions or preconceived notions
- Allow for more precise and realistic drawings by providing a systematic approach to analyzing and reproducing visual information
Types of sighting techniques
Sighting vs measuring
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- Sighting involves using your eye to visually compare distances, angles and relationships between points without relying on precise measurements
- Measuring entails using tools like rulers, calipers or proportional dividers to obtain exact dimensions which are then transferred to the drawing
- Sighting is often quicker and allows for more fluid, natural drawings while measuring can ensure high accuracy but may result in stiffer, less expressive lines
Sight-size method
- Technique where the drawing is created the same size as the subject appears from a fixed viewing distance
- Artist stands back from the easel so the subject and drawing visually appear the same size, allowing for direct comparison of shapes and proportions
- Particularly useful for portrait drawing or rendering subjects with intricate details (lace, ornamental objects)
Comparative measurement
- Entails choosing a basic unit of measurement on the subject (eye width for a portrait) and using that to estimate the proportions of other parts
- The artist might determine the head is five eye widths tall, the nose is one eye width long, etc.
- Helps ensure the various elements are sized correctly in relation to each other
Angle sighting
- Artist positions their pencil or other straight edge to match the angle of a line on the subject
- The angle is then transferred to the drawing by maintaining the pencil at the same tilt
- Allows accurate depiction of the orientation of edges and planes, helping to capture perspective and three-dimensional form
Alignment techniques
- Involve noting where different parts of the subject line up vertically, horizontally or diagonally
- Artist may visualize or lightly mark plumb lines to see how features align (corner of eye lines up with edge of mouth)
- Horizontal alignments can help ensure features are placed at the correct height (tops of ears align with brow line)
- Diagonals help map the flow and movement within a composition
Tools for sighting
Pencil as sighting tool
- Pencil can be held at arm's length and positioned vertically, horizontally or at an angle to gauge relative proportions and angles
- Placing the pencil visually over the subject allows the artist to estimate comparative distances (height of figure is three pencil lengths)
- Pencil can also help find the midpoint or other divisions of a subject by rotating it until it appears to split the form equally
Plumb line for vertical alignment
- A weighted string serves as a vertical reference line to help map the alignment and orientation of the subject
- Can be held in front of or beside the subject to note where key landmarks fall in relation to the
- Helps ensure elements are vertically stacked correctly and symmetrical features are balanced
Viewfinder for composition
- A small frame made of cardboard, plastic or thumbs and forefingers held at arm's length to isolate the subject
- Allows artist to see how the subject fits within a rectangular composition and make decisions about cropping and placement
- Can be used to visualize how the subject will be translated to the proportions of the drawing paper or canvas
- Helps artist determine the eye level or horizon line of the scene
Sighting for accurate proportions
Sighting height vs width
- Comparing the vertical and horizontal extents of the subject helps ensure the overall proportions are accurately depicted
- Artist may use pencil or thumb at arm's length to measure relative height, then rotate it 90 degrees to compare to width
- Many subjects will have general proportional relationships (average human figure is 7-8 heads tall)
- Sighting can confirm or adjust these assumptions to fit the specific individual being drawn
Sighting negative space
- Observing the shapes of the spaces around and between parts of the subject rather than focusing on the objects themselves
- Negative spaces often have interesting, asymmetrical shapes that can be easier to accurately outline than the more complex positive forms
- Helping to see the subject as an abstract arrangement of shapes and spaces rather than a recognized object
- Negative space shapes lock together like puzzle pieces with the positive forms, ensuring the drawing is proportional
Sighting for perspective
Sighting vanishing points
- In linear perspective, parallel edges appear to converge towards vanishing points along the horizon line
- Sighting with a pencil can help determine the position of vanishing points by aligning the pencil with receding parallel edges and noting where the pencil points intersect
- Vanishing points are essential for depicting the illusion of depth and three-dimensional space on the flat drawing surface
Sighting horizon line
- The horizon line represents the artist's eye level, where the ground plane appears to meet the sky (visible horizon) or where verticals converge (invisible horizon in interiors, etc.)
- Sighting a horizontal pencil across key landmarks like the tops of doors, windows, figures, etc. can help locate the horizon line
- All vanishing points are positioned on the horizon line, emphasizing its importance in constructing believable perspective
Sighting for angles
Sighting relative angles
- Holding the pencil parallel to various angled lines in the subject allows the artist to observe and replicate the angles in the drawing
- Angles can be gauged relative to vertical or horizontal axes (30 degrees off vertical, 45 degrees up from horizontal, etc.)
- Reproducing the angles of edges and planes helps depict the orientation of forms in space
Sighting parallel lines
- Sighting can help determine which edges of a form are parallel, even if they don't appear so due to perspective
- Angled parallels will converge towards a shared vanishing point
- Identifying parallels helps analyze the spatial relationships within the subject and construct the drawing accurately
Practicing sighting techniques
Sighting exercises for beginners
- Simple block or cylinder forms can be used to practice sighting heights vs widths, relative angles, perspective convergence
- Copying masterwork drawings or photographs upside-down to focus on shapes and relationships rather than the identity of the subject
- Modified contour drawing, where the artist observes the subject without looking at the paper to carefully sight angles and proportions before committing lines
Sighting in figure drawing
- Sighting can map the alignments and angles of the skeleton to construct the figure in accurate perspective
- Proportions like head heights mark off distances to depict the figure at the correct scale
- Negative space shapes between limbs and torso are critical for natural, balanced gesture
Sighting for still life
- Still life arrangements often feature overlapping forms at different angles, making sighting essential for plotting perspective
- Negative spaces between objects help nail the composition and proportions
- Reflective surfaces and cast shadows introduce key alignments and angles to be sighted
Sighting for landscape drawing
- Sighting the horizon line and vanishing points is crucial for depicting the recession of space
- Angles of roads, fences, rooflines etc. converge to vanishing points and add to the perspective illusion
- Comparative measurements can judge the height of trees, depth of spaces and relative sizes of landscape features
- Atmospheric perspective softens distant elements, so sighting helps establish the relative clarity of edges
Key Terms to Review (20)
Adjustment: Adjustment refers to the process of making changes or fine-tuning elements in a drawing to achieve accuracy and proportion in representation. This term highlights the importance of observation and perception in creating art, where artists often need to make subtle alterations to their work based on what they see versus what they believe they see. In drawing, it emphasizes the relationship between sight and reality, where adjustments ensure that the final piece closely aligns with the artist's intention.
Alignment techniques: Alignment techniques are methods used to establish a coherent relationship between different elements within a drawing, ensuring that they are visually and spatially connected. These techniques help artists maintain accurate proportions, perspective, and overall composition, enhancing the clarity and impact of the artwork.
Angle sighting: Angle sighting is a technique used in drawing and perspective to determine the angles between different elements of a composition, helping to create a more accurate representation of three-dimensional objects on a two-dimensional surface. This method aids in achieving proper proportions and spatial relationships in artworks, allowing artists to translate their observations into accurate sketches or paintings.
Background: In visual arts, the background refers to the space or elements that exist behind the main subject of a composition. It helps set the context for the foreground subject and plays a crucial role in defining spatial relationships and the overall mood of the artwork.
Blocking in: Blocking in is the process of establishing the basic shapes, forms, and proportions of a drawing or composition before adding detail or refinement. This technique helps artists visualize the overall structure and layout of their work, ensuring accurate representation and a solid foundation for further development. It allows for adjustments early on, making it easier to achieve a balanced and cohesive piece.
Comparative measurement: Comparative measurement is a technique used in visual arts to determine the proportions and relationships between different elements in a composition by comparing them to one another. This method relies on using a reference point, such as the size of an object or the distance between two points, to accurately gauge scale and proportion. It is essential for achieving accurate representations and maintaining visual harmony within a drawing or painting.
Foreground: The foreground refers to the part of an artwork that is closest to the viewer, often containing the most detail and focus. It plays a crucial role in creating depth and context in a composition, influencing how the viewer engages with the scene and the overall narrative of the piece.
Pencil as sighting tool: The pencil as a sighting tool is an essential technique used in drawing to measure and compare proportions and angles visually. By extending the pencil out in front of the artist, it acts as a reference line to help accurately align elements of a composition, ensuring that objects are rendered with correct perspective and scale. This method allows artists to create a more realistic representation of their subject by translating three-dimensional forms onto a two-dimensional surface.
Plumb line: A plumb line is a simple tool used in drawing and construction that consists of a weight suspended from a string, which helps to establish a true vertical reference. This tool is crucial for achieving accurate proportions and measurements, as it ensures that lines are aligned vertically, assisting artists in maintaining the correct perspective and orientation while drawing subjects. By using a plumb line, artists can easily gauge balance and symmetry, making it an essential aspect of observational techniques.
Refinement: Refinement refers to the process of making small adjustments and improvements to an artwork, enhancing its overall quality and accuracy. This involves carefully analyzing different aspects of the piece, such as proportion, perspective, and detail, to achieve a more polished final product. Through refinement, artists can elevate their work from initial sketches to more cohesive and impactful compositions.
Sight-size method: The sight-size method is a drawing technique where the artist positions their work at a distance that allows them to compare the proportions and placement of objects directly to what they see in front of them. This approach relies on visual measurement, enabling artists to create accurate representations by aligning their drawing with the actual subject, making it especially useful for life drawing and portraiture.
Sighting height vs width: Sighting height vs width refers to the technique used in drawing to determine the proportional relationships between the height and width of an object. This method helps artists accurately capture the dimensions and perspective of subjects, enhancing the realism in their work. By using their eye and tools like a pencil or ruler, artists can measure and compare these dimensions, ensuring that the final representation reflects the true proportions of what they see.
Sighting horizon line: The sighting horizon line is an essential concept in drawing that refers to the imaginary line where the sky meets the ground, acting as a reference point for establishing perspective and depth in artwork. This line helps artists maintain proper proportions and spatial relationships when depicting objects and landscapes, ensuring that elements are aligned correctly according to the viewer's eye level.
Sighting negative space: Sighting negative space is a drawing technique that involves observing and measuring the spaces around and between objects, rather than focusing solely on the objects themselves. This method helps artists to capture the proportions and relationships of shapes more accurately, as it emphasizes the areas that surround the subjects. By understanding negative space, artists can create more balanced and harmonious compositions.
Sighting parallel lines: Sighting parallel lines involves the technique of visually aligning two or more lines in a drawing to ensure they are perceived as parallel by the viewer. This technique helps artists accurately depict perspective and depth in their work, creating a sense of realism. It relies on measuring angles and distances to achieve a harmonious balance between the lines and surrounding forms.
Sighting relative angles: Sighting relative angles is a technique used in drawing to gauge the angles and proportions of objects in relation to one another. This method involves using a straight edge or your pencil to create visual lines that can be compared against the angles formed by the objects you’re observing, helping artists maintain accurate perspectives and proportions in their work.
Sighting techniques: Sighting techniques are methods used by artists to achieve accurate proportions, angles, and perspectives in their drawings. These techniques involve using visual aids like a pencil, ruler, or one's own hand to measure and compare the relationships between various elements of a subject, ensuring that what is represented on paper closely resembles reality. Mastering these techniques is essential for developing observational skills and enhancing overall drawing accuracy.
Sighting vanishing points: Sighting vanishing points involves identifying the points in a perspective drawing where parallel lines appear to converge and disappear. This technique is crucial for creating the illusion of depth and three-dimensionality on a two-dimensional surface. By accurately determining these points, artists can create more realistic and proportionate depictions of space.
Thumbnail sketching: Thumbnail sketching is a quick and small preliminary drawing that helps artists explore ideas, composition, and layouts before committing to a more detailed work. This technique allows for rapid visualization of concepts and experimentation with different arrangements, making it an essential part of the creative process.
Viewfinder: A viewfinder is a tool used by artists to frame their composition and focus on the subject matter they want to draw or paint. This simple device allows for a more controlled observation by limiting the artist's field of view, which helps in assessing proportions, relationships, and overall composition. By isolating the scene or subject, a viewfinder aids in developing a clear mental image that guides the creation process.