What to Draw: Inspiring Ideas & Tutorials

Ever found yourself staring at a blank canvas or sketchbook, wondering, "What should I draw?" You're not alone. Whether you're an artist looking for inspiration or a beginner exploring your creative side, choosing a subject can be the most challenging part of the artistic process. Let's delve into some inspiring ideas and techniques to help you overcome this hurdle.

Before we dive into specific ideas, remember that drawing is a personal and subjective experience. The best subject is one that resonates with you, sparks your imagination, and brings you joy. So, let's explore various themes and approaches to help you find your perfect "What should I draw?" answer.

Nature and Landscapes

Nature is an endless source of inspiration, offering a vast array of subjects from the tiniest blade of grass to the grandest mountain range. Start by observing your surroundings – your backyard, a local park, or even a photograph from a travel magazine.

To make your landscape drawing more engaging, consider these sub-topics:

Seasonal Changes

Capture the essence of a particular season by focusing on its unique characteristics. Autumn leaves, winter snow, spring blossoms, or summer sunsets – each offers a rich palette of colors and textures.

For example, try sketching the intricate patterns of frost on a windowpane during winter, or the vibrant hues of fall foliage reflected in a still pond.

Weather Phenomena

Storms, sunrises, and sunsets can create dramatic and captivating scenes. Experiment with different weather conditions to add mood and atmosphere to your drawings.

For instance, try capturing the eerie beauty of a lightning storm over a distant horizon, or the soft, warm glow of a sunrise breaking through the morning mist.

People and Portraits

Drawing people can be both challenging and rewarding. It allows you to explore facial expressions, body language, and the human form. Start by sketching yourself, friends, or family members, then expand your subjects as your skills grow.

Here are two sub-topics to help you approach people and portraits:

Emotions and Expressions

Conveying emotion through your drawings can make them more engaging and relatable. Practice drawing different facial expressions, such as joy, sadness, surprise, or anger.

For example, try sketching a child's wide-eyed wonder at seeing their first snowfall, or an elderly person's contented smile while reminiscing about their past.

Storytelling through Pose

Body language can tell a story and convey a message without relying on facial expressions. Experiment with different poses to create narrative-driven portraits.

For instance, sketch a person mid-laugh, with their head thrown back and hands on their belly, or capture the quiet determination of an athlete stretching before a race.

Animals and Creatures

Animals make fascinating subjects due to their diverse shapes, sizes, and behaviors. Observe real-life animals, watch wildlife documentaries, or study photographs to capture their unique characteristics.

Consider these sub-topics to add depth to your animal drawings:

Action and Movement

Capturing animals in motion can create dynamic and engaging drawings. Practice drawing animals running, jumping, or flying to convey a sense of energy and movement.

For example, try sketching a cheetah in full sprint, or a bird taking flight, with wings outstretched and tail feathers fanned.

Fantastical Creatures

Let your imagination run wild by creating and drawing your own mythical beasts. Combine elements from different animals, or invent entirely new creatures to populate your artistic world.

For instance, design a hybrid creature with the body of a lion, the wings of an eagle, and the head of a serpent, or create a whimsical, plant-like being that blooms with vibrant colors.

Ultimately, the best answer to "What should I draw?" is the subject that ignites your passion and fuels your creativity. So, experiment with various themes, techniques, and styles until you find what brings you the most joy and fulfillment. Happy drawing!