People of the World

When drawing subjects of ethnic background, it is important to study their features and proportions closely. While you may find some characteristics typical of a certain ethnicity, there are still many variances between individuals. Your observation skills will be tested with these drawings!

For this young boy of color, begin as usual with guidelines and a block-in sketch. Look for the features that make the subject unique—for example, large, round eyes, a wide nose, and full lips. Notice that the eyes are especially dark in value, providing a striking contrast to the white highlights.

To render the dark skin, use charcoal or a soft-lead pencil to shade over the face with even, parallel strokes. Leave areas of white for highlights, especially on the tip of the nose and the center of the lower lip.

The diverse population provides endless opportunities for drawing subjects; continue to observe people around you to challenge and improve your skills.

This Asian girl has her head tilted forward, which requires you to adjust the proportions. In this position, where the chin is close to the chest, the length of the face should be shortened, leaving a larger area for the top of the head. This adjustment is an example of foreshortening. For further information on foreshortening, see Walter Foster’s Perspective (AL13) in the Artist’s Library series.

Notice how the guidelines are altered in step A. Observe your subject closely to determine the differences. In steps B and C, develop the features, and suggest the hair and costume. Asians generally have shiny, black hair, so try using a brush and India ink, as shown in step D, to achieve this effect. Leave small white areas for highlights, enhancing the sheen of the hair.

The length of the face must be shortened because her head is tilted forward. The best way to master foreshortening is through plenty of practice!

Don’t try to draw from your imagination; always use a live model or photograph for reference.

Draw curved lines for the closed eyes, adding short, thick strokes for the lashes.