New Drawing on the Right Side of the Brain Workbook: Guided Practice in the Five Basic Skills of Drawing

Detailed Summary of the Book

The 'New Drawing on the Right Side of the Brain Workbook' is an innovative and hands-on approach designed for both beginners and experienced artists who wish to improve their drawing abilities. This workbook serves as a companion to the original 'Drawing on the Right Side of the Brain' book, applying its concepts through practical exercises. Structured around the five basic skills of drawing—perception of edges, spaces, relationships, light and shadows, and the whole composition—this workbook aims to unlock the creative potential within each individual.

Each section of the workbook offers detailed exercises that encourage the artist to view the world differently, shifting from a left-brained, logical approach to a right-brained, perceptual one. By doing so, artists can better capture the world around them with accuracy and artistic flair. The book also includes step-by-step drawing exercises, reflective tasks to deepen understanding, and helpful tips for overcoming common drawing challenges. Through consistent practice, readers can expect to see significant improvements in their drawing skills and confidence.

Key Takeaways

• Understanding and applying the five perceptual skills of drawing.
• Learning to shift modes from analytical left-brain thinking to perceptive right-brain thinking.
• Gaining confidence in your own drawing abilities through structured exercises.
• Developing a new way of seeing the world, leading to more accurate and artistic renditions on paper.

Famous Quotes from the Book

"Drawing is not really very difficult. Seeing is the problem, or to be more specific, shifting to a particular way of seeing."

"The ability to draw depends on one's ability to see the way an artist sees."

Why This Book Matters

The 'New Drawing on the Right Side of the Brain Workbook' holds a crucial place in art education due to its unique approach that demystifies the art of drawing. It emphasizes that drawing is not simply a mystical talent, but a teachable skill that can be developed through practice and perceptual shifts. By focusing on right-brain thinking, Betty Edwards effectively taps into the creative faculties of the brain, guiding individuals to surpass their own perceived limitations.

This workbook has been instrumental for countless individuals who believed they "could not draw" and has helped them discover their hidden artistic capabilities. It fosters growth and self-discovery by encouraging a fresh way to interpret and recreate the visual world, making art accessible and enjoyable for all. As a companion to a classic, this workbook continues to inspire new generations of artists to harness their innate potential and see themselves, and their environments, in a transformative light.