Drawing is a skill that can be learned and developed at any age. Whether you want to improve your current drawing abilities or start from scratch, there are a few tips and resources that can help you get started.

1. Start with the Basics

Before you can draw anything, it’s important to understand the basics of drawing. This includes learning about shapes, lines, shading, and proportions. A great book to get started is “Drawing on the Right Side of the Brain” by Betty Edwards. This book focuses on the fundamental skills of drawing and provides exercises to help you improve.

2. Practice, Practice, Practice

Drawing is a skill that requires practice. The more you draw, the better you’ll become. Start by drawing simple objects and gradually work your way up to more complex subjects. Don’t worry about making mistakes, just keep practicing and learning from them.

3. Experiment with Different Materials

There are many different materials that can be used for drawing, including pencils, charcoal, and ink. Experiment with different materials to find what works best for you. A great book to explore different materials is “The Complete Book of Drawing” by Barrington Barber.

4. Take a Class

Taking a drawing class can be a great way to improve your skills and learn new techniques. Many community centers, art schools, and universities offer drawing classes for all skill levels. You can also find online courses and tutorials to take at your own pace.

5. Join a Drawing Group

Joining a drawing group or finding a drawing buddy can help keep you motivated and provide feedback on your work. You can find local drawing groups through community centers, art schools, and online forums.

6. Draw from Life

Drawing from life can help improve your observation skills and give you a better understanding of form and proportion. Go outside and draw from nature, or draw objects around your house.

7. Embrace Your Style

Don’t worry about creating perfect drawings or copying someone else’s style. Embrace your own unique style and use it to express your creativity.

8. Don’t Give Up

Drawing can be frustrating at times, but don’t give up. Keep practicing and learning, and you’ll see improvement over time. Remember that it’s a journey, not a destination. With these tips and resources, anyone can learn to draw at any age. Whether you’re a beginner or an experienced artist, there’s always room to grow and improve.

Interested in learning more? Here are three resources to get you started:

1. “Drawing on the Right Side of the Brain” by Betty Edwards: This book is a classic and has helped many people who thought they couldn’t draw to discover that they actually can. It teaches the basics of drawing and how to see and perceive the world around you as an artist.
2. “Keys to Drawing” by Bert Dodson: This classic offers a comprehensive introduction to drawing, starting with the basics of line, shape, and shading, and progressing to more advanced techniques like perspective and composition. It is well-organized and easy to follow, making it a great choice for beginners.
3. “You Can Draw in 30 Days” by Mark Kistler: This book is designed for people who want to learn to draw but have very little time to devote to it. It offers a series of step-by-step exercises that can be completed in just 20 minutes a day, and covers a wide range of subjects and techniques. It’s a great choice for anyone who wants to start drawing but is short on time.