3.2 Charcoal
9 min read•august 19, 2024
Charcoal is a versatile drawing medium that offers artists a range of expressive possibilities. From soft to bold compressed sticks, each type has unique qualities that can be used to create diverse textures, tones, and effects in drawings.
Mastering charcoal techniques like , , and allows artists to achieve depth and realism. Understanding how to work with different surfaces, create value scales, and combine charcoal with other media opens up even more creative avenues for developing a unique artistic style.
Types of charcoal
- Charcoal is a versatile drawing medium that comes in various forms, each with unique characteristics and uses
- The main types of charcoal used in drawing include vine charcoal, , charcoal pencils, , and
- Understanding the differences between these types of charcoal allows artists to choose the most suitable medium for their desired effects and techniques
Vine vs compressed charcoal
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- Vine charcoal is made from natural willow or grape vines and has a soft, lightweight that produces light to medium tones
- Creates delicate, smudgy lines and is easily erasable, making it ideal for initial sketches and gestural drawings
- Compressed charcoal is made from powdered charcoal mixed with a gum binder and is available in various degrees of hardness
- Produces darker, more intense lines and tones compared to vine charcoal and is less prone to smudging, allowing for more detailed work
Charcoal pencils
- Charcoal pencils consist of compressed charcoal encased in a wooden pencil or a wrapper
- Available in different hardness grades (soft, medium, hard), offering a range of line qualities and tonal values
- Provide more control and precision compared to loose charcoal, making them suitable for detailed drawings and fine lines
Powdered charcoal
- Powdered charcoal is a loose, fine powder form of charcoal that can be applied using brushes, stumps, or cloths
- Allows for smooth, seamless blending and shading, creating soft gradations and atmospheric effects
- Can be mixed with water or other mediums to create washes or paint-like effects
Charcoal sticks
- Charcoal sticks are thicker, chunkier versions of compressed charcoal, available in various sizes and shapes (round, square, rectangular)
- Offer a bold, expressive line quality and can cover large areas quickly, making them ideal for sketching and life drawing
- Can be sharpened to a point for more precise lines or used on their side for broad, gestural strokes
Charcoal drawing techniques
- Charcoal's versatility allows for a wide range of drawing techniques that can be used to create diverse textures, tones, and effects
- Mastering these techniques enables artists to achieve their desired outcomes and develop a unique artistic style
- Some essential charcoal drawing techniques include blending, lifting, , hatching and , and
Blending
- Blending involves smoothing and softening the edges between different tones or colors to create gradual transitions
- Can be achieved using fingers, tissues, paper stumps (tortillons), or blending brushes
- Blending helps to create a sense of depth, volume, and realism in charcoal drawings
Lifting
- Lifting is a technique that involves removing or lightening charcoal from the paper using an eraser, kneaded eraser, or adhesive material (masking tape, putty eraser)
- Allows for the creation of , light tones, and subtle details within a charcoal drawing
- Can be used to correct mistakes or adjust the composition by selectively removing charcoal
Erasing
- Erasing in charcoal drawing involves using various types of erasers to remove or lighten charcoal marks
- Different erasers (gum eraser, kneaded eraser, vinyl eraser) offer varying degrees of precision and control
- Erasing can create negative space, highlights, and textural effects within a charcoal drawing
Hatching and cross-hatching
- Hatching involves drawing a series of parallel lines to create tonal value and texture
- Cross-hatching builds upon hatching by adding another layer of lines at an angle, creating a mesh-like pattern
- These techniques can be used to create shadows, depth, and volume in charcoal drawings
Subtractive drawing
- Subtractive drawing involves starting with a dark charcoal background and removing charcoal to create highlights and lighter tones
- Can be achieved using erasers, paper stumps, or other tools to "draw" with negative space
- This technique is particularly effective for creating dramatic lighting and high- images
Fixatives for charcoal
- Fixatives are sprays used to preserve and protect charcoal drawings from smudging, fading, and damage
- They work by binding the charcoal particles to the paper surface, making the drawing more stable and resistant to touch
- There are two main types of fixatives used in charcoal drawing: workable and permanent fixatives
Workable vs permanent fixatives
- Workable fixatives provide a temporary hold on the charcoal, allowing the artist to continue working on the drawing without completely sealing it
- Ideal for layering and building up tones gradually, as the artist can still make changes and additions to the drawing after applying the
- Permanent fixatives offer a stronger, more durable hold on the charcoal, sealing the drawing and preventing further changes
- Used as a final step to protect the finished artwork from smudging and fading over time
Applying fixatives
- Always apply fixatives in a well-ventilated area, preferably outdoors or in a designated spray booth
- Hold the can approximately 12-18 inches away from the drawing surface and apply the spray in light, even coats
- Avoid over-saturating the drawing with fixative, as this can cause the charcoal to become darker or create an unwanted glossy finish
- Allow each coat of fixative to dry completely before applying additional coats or making further changes to the drawing
Surfaces for charcoal drawing
- The choice of surface can significantly impact the final appearance and quality of a charcoal drawing
- Different surfaces offer varying degrees of texture, tooth, and absorbency, which affect how the charcoal interacts with the surface
- Some common surfaces for charcoal drawing include textured and , , and other materials like or wood
Textured vs smooth paper
- (cold-pressed, rough) has a pronounced grain or tooth that grips the charcoal particles, creating a more tactile and expressive drawing
- Ideal for bold, gestural marks and achieving a range of textures and effects
- Smooth paper (hot-pressed, plate) has a fine, even surface that allows for more detailed and precise lines and shading
- Suitable for creating smooth gradations, fine details, and realistic renderings
Toned paper
- Toned paper comes in various colors (gray, beige, tan, black) and provides a mid-tone base for charcoal drawings
- Allows the artist to create highlights using white charcoal or chalk, and shadows using dark charcoal
- Toned paper can help to speed up the drawing process and create a cohesive, atmospheric effect
Other surfaces
- Charcoal can be used on a variety of other surfaces, such as canvas, wood, or even unconventional materials like sandpaper or fabric
- Each surface will interact with the charcoal differently, offering unique textures and effects
- Experimenting with different surfaces can help artists expand their creative possibilities and develop new techniques
Charcoal and value
- Value refers to the lightness or darkness of a tone, and is a crucial element in creating depth, form, and contrast in charcoal drawings
- Charcoal is an excellent medium for exploring value, as it can produce a wide range of tones from the lightest lights to the darkest darks
- Understanding how to create and manipulate value is essential for achieving realistic and expressive charcoal drawings
Creating a value scale
- A value scale is a gradual progression of tones from light to dark, usually divided into 5-10 steps
- Creating a value scale helps artists understand the range of tones available with charcoal and practice their shading techniques
- To create a value scale, start with the lightest tone and gradually build up to the darkest tone, ensuring smooth transitions between each step
Achieving a full range of values
- To create convincing and dynamic charcoal drawings, it's important to use a full range of values from light to dark
- Start with a light, even layer of charcoal and gradually build up darker tones using layering, blending, and varying pressure
- Use highlights sparingly to create a sense of depth and contrast, and don't be afraid to push the darks to create drama and intensity
High contrast vs low contrast
- High contrast drawings feature a strong difference between the lightest and darkest tones, creating a bold and dramatic effect
- Low contrast drawings have a more subtle range of tones, with less extreme differences between light and dark, creating a softer, more atmospheric feel
- The choice between high and low contrast depends on the subject matter, mood, and artistic intent of the drawing
Combining charcoal with other media
- Charcoal can be combined with various other drawing and painting media to create unique textures, effects, and mixed media artworks
- Mixing charcoal with other materials allows artists to expand their creative possibilities and develop innovative techniques
- Some common media that can be combined with charcoal include graphite, white chalk or pastel, and wet media like ink or watercolor
Charcoal and graphite
- Combining charcoal with graphite can create a dynamic interplay between the soft, smudgy texture of charcoal and the precise, shiny lines of graphite
- Use graphite for fine details, outlines, or highlights, and charcoal for shading, shadows, and expressive marks
- Experiment with layering and blending the two media to create unique textures and tonal effects
Charcoal and white chalk or pastel
- White chalk or pastel can be used in combination with charcoal to create highlights, accents, and bright tones
- Particularly effective on toned or dark paper, as the white media stands out against the mid-tone or dark background
- Use white media sparingly to avoid overpowering the charcoal and to maintain a balanced composition
Mixed media approaches
- Charcoal can be combined with various wet media, such as ink, watercolor, or acrylic paint, to create dynamic mixed media artworks
- Experiment with applying wet media first and then drawing with charcoal on top, or vice versa, to explore different textures and effects
- Use masking fluid or tape to create sharp edges or preserve areas of the drawing when applying wet media
Caring for charcoal drawings
- Charcoal drawings are delicate and prone to smudging, fading, and damage if not properly cared for
- Taking the necessary steps to protect and preserve charcoal artworks ensures their longevity and maintains their quality over time
- Some essential aspects of caring for charcoal drawings include preventing smudging and storing and preserving the artworks
Preventing smudging
- To prevent smudging, always use a fixative spray to seal the charcoal drawing once it's complete
- Handle the drawing carefully, avoiding touching the surface directly with fingers or hands
- When working on a charcoal drawing, use a sheet of paper or a mahl stick to rest your hand on and minimize smudging
Storing and preserving drawings
- Store charcoal drawings flat in a portfolio or drawer, using acid-free tissue paper or glassine between each drawing to prevent smudging and transfer
- Avoid exposing charcoal drawings to direct sunlight, high humidity, or extreme temperatures, as these conditions can cause fading and damage
- Consider framing charcoal drawings with archival-quality materials and UV-protective glass to ensure long-term preservation and display
Styles of charcoal drawing
- Charcoal's versatility allows for a wide range of artistic styles and approaches, from loose and gestural to highly detailed and realistic
- Exploring different styles helps artists develop their unique creative voice and adapt to various subject matter and artistic goals
- Some common styles of charcoal drawing include gestural and expressive, detailed and realistic, and abstract and experimental
Gestural and expressive
- Gestural and expressive charcoal drawings focus on capturing the essence, movement, and energy of the subject matter
- Often created using quick, loose marks and emphasizing the overall impression rather than fine details
- Ideal for life drawing, figure studies, and capturing fleeting moments or emotions
Detailed and realistic
- Detailed and realistic charcoal drawings aim to create a highly accurate and lifelike representation of the subject matter
- Achieved through careful observation, precise shading, and attention to subtle tonal variations and textures
- Suitable for portraiture, still life, and landscapes that require a high level of realism and technical skill
Abstract and experimental
- Abstract and experimental charcoal drawings push the boundaries of traditional representation and explore unique mark-making, compositions, and concepts
- May incorporate unconventional techniques, such as erasing, scraping, or layering with other media
- Encourage artistic innovation, self-expression, and the development of a distinctive personal style
Key Terms to Review (27)
Blending: Blending is the technique of smoothly transitioning between colors, tones, or textures to create a more cohesive and realistic appearance in a drawing. This method enhances the illusion of depth and form, making elements within a piece look more integrated and natural. It plays a crucial role in conveying light, shadow, and volume, allowing artists to achieve a sense of three-dimensionality in their work.
Canvas: Canvas is a durable fabric made from cotton, linen, or synthetic fibers, commonly used as a surface for painting. Its texture and strength make it suitable for various mediums, including oil, acrylic, and charcoal. The choice of canvas can significantly influence the application techniques and the final appearance of artwork.
Charcoal pencil: A charcoal pencil is a drawing tool made of compressed charcoal encased in wood, used primarily for sketching and drawing. It combines the rich, deep blacks of charcoal with the precision of a pencil, making it a versatile medium for artists who want both bold lines and fine details in their work.
Charcoal sticks: Charcoal sticks are drawing tools made from finely charred wood, providing artists with rich, deep black lines and varied texture. These sticks are favored for their versatility, allowing for both bold strokes and soft shading, making them a popular choice among artists for creating expressive and dynamic artwork.
Chiaroscuro: Chiaroscuro is an artistic technique that uses strong contrasts between light and dark to give the illusion of volume and three-dimensionality in two-dimensional artworks. This technique enhances the perception of depth and dimension, making objects appear more realistic by mimicking how light interacts with surfaces. It plays a crucial role in establishing mood and focus in various forms of art, relying on the principles of light, shadow, and value to create compelling imagery.
Compressed charcoal: Compressed charcoal is a drawing medium made from finely ground charcoal that has been compacted into sticks or pencils. It provides a rich, dark mark and allows for a wide range of values and textures, making it popular among artists for its versatility in both detailed and expressive work. Its ability to be blended with various tools enhances the depth and richness of the artwork.
Contrast: Contrast refers to the difference between two or more elements in a composition, which can include color, texture, shape, or value. It plays a crucial role in creating visual interest and emphasizing certain aspects of artwork, guiding the viewer's eye through the piece.
Cross-hatching: Cross-hatching is a drawing technique that involves creating a series of intersecting lines to build up shading, texture, and form. This method is effective for conveying value and depth, allowing artists to create intricate designs that suggest three-dimensionality through the interplay of light and shadow.
Erasing: Erasing refers to the technique of removing or altering marks made on a surface, particularly in drawing and sketching. This process is crucial for correcting mistakes, refining shapes, and enhancing the overall composition of an artwork. It allows artists to manipulate their drawings by adding lightness, texture, or even depth, making it an essential part of working with various media such as charcoal and pastels.
Eugène Delacroix: Eugène Delacroix was a French Romantic artist known for his dramatic use of color and expressive brushwork. His work often depicted historical and literary themes, capturing intense emotions and moments of conflict, which are central to the Romantic movement. Delacroix's innovative techniques with charcoal, particularly in his sketches and studies, helped lay the groundwork for modern art practices.
Fixative: A fixative is a substance applied to drawings or artworks to preserve and protect the medium from smudging, fading, or deterioration. In the context of charcoal, fixatives play a crucial role in stabilizing the delicate marks made by this medium, ensuring that the artwork remains intact over time while maintaining its visual qualities.
Hatching: Hatching is a drawing technique that uses parallel lines to create tonal or shading effects, helping to define form, texture, and depth in an artwork. This method relies on the careful placement and density of lines to suggest light and shadow, ultimately enhancing the overall visual interest of the piece.
Highlights: Highlights are the lightest parts of a drawing or painting where light reflects off a surface, giving depth and dimension. They are essential for creating the illusion of form, texture, and depth in artwork, enhancing the visual impact and realism of objects.
Lifting: Lifting refers to the technique of removing or lightening marks made by drawing materials, allowing for corrections or enhancements in artwork. This technique is particularly useful when working with mediums that allow for softening or blending, as it can create highlights, texture, and depth without the need to add more material. Mastering lifting can significantly enhance the quality and visual impact of a piece.
Lucian Freud: Lucian Freud was a renowned British painter known for his intense, raw depictions of the human figure, particularly through portraiture and figure painting. His work is characterized by a unique approach to oil painting and an unflinching attention to detail, capturing not only the physical appearance of his subjects but also their psychological depth.
Opacity: Opacity refers to the degree to which a medium obscures or allows light to pass through it, influencing how colors and textures are perceived in artwork. It plays a crucial role in determining the layering and depth in drawing materials, affecting how they interact with one another. Understanding opacity helps artists control visibility and the interplay between different mediums.
Paper: Paper is a versatile material made from cellulose fibers, primarily derived from wood, rags, or other plant sources. It serves as a fundamental support medium for various artistic practices, enabling artists to capture and express their ideas visually. In the context of drawing, paper's texture, weight, and absorbency play a significant role in how materials like charcoal interact with its surface, impacting the final appearance of the artwork.
Permanent fixative: A permanent fixative is a spray or liquid that is used to preserve artwork created with dry media, such as charcoal, pastels, and graphite, by preventing smudging and fading. It creates a protective layer over the artwork, which helps maintain the integrity of the materials used and enhances the longevity of the finished piece. This is particularly important when working with charcoal, which can be easily smudged and is prone to fading over time.
Powdered Charcoal: Powdered charcoal is a fine black powder made from carbonized organic materials, often used in drawing and sketching. It offers a rich, velvety texture that can create a range of tones from deep blacks to soft grays, making it an essential medium for artists seeking expressive shading and blending techniques.
Richness: Richness refers to the depth, intensity, and vibrancy of a medium or color, particularly how well it conveys a sense of fullness and saturation in visual art. In the context of drawing, richness is crucial as it influences how materials interact with each other and how effectively they can express mood, emotion, and form. This term often highlights the unique qualities of different drawing materials, such as their ability to layer or blend, which ultimately enhances the overall impact of the artwork.
Smooth paper: Smooth paper is a type of drawing surface characterized by its fine texture and lack of tooth, allowing for a slick feel and enabling detailed work. Artists often choose smooth paper when they want to achieve sharp lines and fine details, making it especially suitable for techniques that require precision, such as graphite drawing and inking.
Subtractive drawing: Subtractive drawing is a technique where artists create images by removing material from a surface, typically using tools like erasers or rags to lift off media rather than applying it. This method allows for the creation of highlights and depth in artwork, giving a unique contrast to the traditional additive techniques. The beauty of subtractive drawing lies in its ability to manipulate light and shadow by revealing the paper's whiteness or the underlying surface.
Texture: Texture refers to the surface quality of a work of art, which can be perceived through touch or sight. It plays a significant role in conveying depth, dimension, and emotional context within an artwork, impacting how shapes, materials, and forms are understood and experienced.
Textured paper: Textured paper refers to paper that has a distinct surface quality, often featuring patterns, grooves, or raised designs that provide tactile and visual interest. This type of paper can significantly affect the way various drawing mediums, such as charcoal and pastels, interact with the surface, impacting the application, blending, and overall final appearance of artwork.
Toned paper: Toned paper is a type of drawing paper that is colored, typically in shades of gray, tan, or beige, offering a mid-tone background for artists to work against. This unique quality allows artists to create drawings that utilize both the paper's tone and their chosen medium, such as charcoal or pencil, to achieve a range of values from light to dark. The use of toned paper enhances contrast and depth in artworks, making it a popular choice for figure drawing and studies.
Vine charcoal: Vine charcoal is a soft drawing medium made from carbonized vines, which results in a lightweight and easily blendable material ideal for sketching and rendering. This type of charcoal is known for its rich, dark lines and ability to create subtle gradations of tone, making it a favorite among artists for preliminary sketches and expressive drawings. It also connects closely to blending tools, as its softness allows for seamless blending techniques to enhance depth and texture in artwork.
Workable fixative: Workable fixative is a type of spray used to stabilize and protect drawings, especially those made with charcoal, pastels, or graphite. It allows artists to preserve their work without smudging while still enabling further manipulation or layering of materials. This fixative creates a barrier that holds the particles in place, preventing them from smearing while maintaining the ability to add more layers on top of it.