still-life
We will be building a still life in class (or you can make it at home). Then we will draw the still life using simple shapes and simplified color palettes in Procreate.
Practice: Getting ready for abstraction
We will use the image below to practice for the project. Tap and download this image, it is just for reference:
Begin to simplify everyday objects into geometric shapes. Use only ellipses, rectangles and triangles to break down each reference photo into its most basic form.
In Procreate, you can make true geometric shapes by holding down your Apple pencil after sketching a loose shape. There are other methods like turning on the drawing assist.
TAKING your PHOTO
Try to include an even balance of tall and short objects to lead the eye around the composition.
Overlap things in different ways.
Find unusual things, weird shapes, it can be any scale you like. Anything from plants & chairs to vases and fruit.
Take a few photos from different angles. Play with different arrangements.
Think about making this have a little negative space.
Set it up & Break it down
In this phase, break down your still life photo into its most basic shapes. The goal here is to make the illustration as simple and graphic as possible, while still keeping it recognizable.
Open a new document and place your photo in the composition. Decrease the opacity and begin to simplify the image.
Color Block it
Create a simple 6 color palette to work with. Try picking a neutral light, neutral dark, bright, and a warm and cool color.
Each object should be on a different layer. Then when you fill them with color and use texture it will be easier
Then you can begin to add detail.
Adding Details
This is where we add shadow, texture, line work details, patterns, whatever you feel like adding to spice up your illustrations a little bit. This is also where you can add little pops of color to make things feel a little bit more balanced. Maybe start with shadows to create some more definition.
Think about where your shadows are by observing your original image. Look for darker areas beneath objects, on the bottom of shapes, or in overlapped shapes.
other examples
Selene Villalobos Zepeda
Silvia Rossana