Introduction to Graphite and Colored Pencil Art
Sketching is a versatile form of drawing, ranging from quick, rough depictions to precise and accurate representations of objects or models. It is primarily done using pencils, especially graphite pencils, which create a paint-like effect. While there is no definitive history of pencil sketching, many artists like Adonna Khare, Marco Mazzoni, and Diego Fazio have been influenced by this art form. The oldest known pencil sketches date back to around 1560 AD by Simonio and Lyndiana Bernacotti.
Colored pencil art, on the other hand, involves using colored pencils to create vibrant artworks. Unlike graphite pencils, colored pencils are made up of wax and binders. Although there is no definitive history of colored pencil sketching, artists like CJ Hendry, Marco Mazzoni, and Veronica Winters have been influenced by this medium. The oldest known colored pencil sketches date back to around 1834 AD by Johann Sebastian Staedtler.
Composition of Graphite and Colored Pencils
Graphite pencils, commonly used for sketching, come in various grades and are ideal for detailed drawings. Charcoal pencils are great for creating dark values but are rougher and more prone to smudging than graphite. Mechanical pencils are sometimes used for thin lines.
Colored pencils, however, are different from ordinary colored pencils. Artistic colored pencils contain more wax and pigment, producing rich, deep, and luminous colors. The finished artwork can be smooth and colorful, resembling a complete painting.
Specific Properties of Graphite and Colored Pencils
Graphite pencils are known for their ability to create realistic and detailed sketches. Their smudging abilities allow artists to add depth and perspective to their artwork.
Colored pencils, on the other hand, enable artists to add precision and detail to their sketches while creating vibrant artworks. They are inexpensive and easy to use compared to other painting materials.
Key Features of Graphite and Colored Pencils
Graphite pencils and their smudging abilities give rise to various art forms such as Graphite Art, Doodle Art, Graphite Pencil Sketch, and Optical illusions like anamorphic illusion or 3D art.
Colored pencils, composed of wax and binders, allow artists to smooth colored wax or pigments using mixed solvents and brushes. Artists can apply color layers to remove formed lines and darken, smooth, and lighten the entire image.
Suitable Surfaces for Graphite and Colored Pencil Art
Paper is the most common surface for pencil sketching. Artists often use cotton-made archival papers like Stonehenge paper, Artagain Papers, Illustration board, Suede board, Mat board, Cartridge Papers, Bristol Papers, Pastel Papers, and Hot-pressed papers for pencil sketching.
Colored pencil sketching can be done on various surfaces such as wood, plastic, metal, and clay. However, paper remains the most popular choice among colored pencil artists. Acid-free papers with appropriate texture and weight make the final artwork more vibrant.
Other Specialties of Graphite and Colored Pencil Art
Sketching has various applications, including product design and creating floor plans. Professional pencil sketch artists often choose pencils that are break-resistant, less shiny, easily sharpened, smooth, consistent, and light. Popular brands include Derwent, Prismacolor, Faber-Castell 9000 Graphite Sketch Pencil, Staedtler, Conte Pencil, General Pencil, Mont Marte Woodless, and Winsor & Newton Willow Charcoal.
Colored pencils can be used to color drawings with light strokes or create continuous layers of color. Professional colored pencil artists focus on various aspects such as layer colors, pencil pressure, quality of the medium, and paper texture and weight. For multiple layer blending, rough paper is used, while textured finish requires medium grain paper or cold press paper. Fine and detailed colors are achieved using hot press paper or fine grain paper, and heavy weight paper is used for blending with solvents or wet media.
Toxicity and Vegan-Friendly Considerations
Graphite pencils contain wood or plastic and graphite leads. While graphite is toxic, making graphite pencils and their products toxic, they are completely vegan-friendly.
Colored pencils, made up of color pigments blended with wax, oil, or resin, are generally non-toxic. However, some colored pencils contain beeswax or casein glue (an adhesive binder based on animal proteins), making them not always vegan-friendly. Brands like Faber Castell Polychromos and certain Derwent pencils are vegan-friendly.
Conclusion
Both graphite and colored pencil art offer unique artistic possibilities and benefits. Graphite pencils provide realistic and detailed sketches with smudging capabilities, while colored pencils allow for vibrant and precise artworks. Each medium has specific properties, surfaces, and techniques that artists must consider to achieve their desired results. The choice between graphite and colored pencil art depends on the artist's preferences and the effects they wish to achieve.
Additionally, GranNino offers a free art hosting platform where artists can upload unlimited artworks, including graphite and colored pencil art. This platform provides a supportive community for artists to showcase their work, receive feedback, and connect with other creatives. For more information and to start uploading your artworks, visit GranNino.
Happy creating! 🎨
Leave a Reply