Textural Studies – Creating an Illusion

One of the most valuable skills in graphite drawing — and in other media as well — is the ability to create believable textures. While careful shading can turn commonplace shapes into definite forms, it’s only with the addition of texture — another element of art — that our forms become truly realistic.

There are many, many different “textures” that can be created: the texture of wood, of brick, or metal; the texture of human skin; the textures of various fabrics; and, of course, the textures of animal fur or feathers.

Good artists, perhaps, can find ways of creating textural illusions simply through a process of careful observation, either in life drawing or with reference photos. Yet even with observation, it may not always be easy to see, to feel, and to fully understand how we can best describe an object’s texture.

Fortunately, there are a number of reference books available. While browsing around online, I came across several books written to show methods for creating just about every possible texture you could think of.

Let’s start with one of the most popular books: 101 Textures in Graphite and Charcoal by Steven Pearce, available both in paperback and in Kindle format. I have this book in my art library, and I highly recommend it. I haven’t tried creating all of the textures shown, but it is a handy reference, and an excellent guide for practice.

Drawing Realistic Textures in Pencil by J. D. Hillberry is another good reference for pencil artists. I also have this book in my library. It features step-by-step instructions and includes two complete “start-to-finish” demonstrations for creating realistic graphite drawings.

Yet another book for graphite artists is Drawing Basic Textures in Pencil by Diane Cardaci, William F. Powell, and Nolon Stacey. This is part of the “Walter Foster” series of art books, and is sub-titled as “A Beginner’s Guide to Realistic Textures in Graphite”. It contains a lot of useful information on graphite pencils, shading techniques, and the use of light and shadow to create texture.

But perhaps graphite is not your favorite medium. Maybe you prefer working with colored pencils instead. If so, you’ll want to check out Creating Textures in Colored Pencil by Gary Greene, an instructional book that includes more than 50 textures.

Exploring additional media is The Complete Book of Textures for Artists with the lengthy sub-title: Step-by-step instructions for mastering more than 275 textures in graphite, charcoal, colored pencil, acrylic, and oil. It is also authored by Steven Pearce, along with Denise J. Howard and Mia Tavonatti. It, too, is available in paperback or Kindle.

How about textures in painting? If you’re a watercolor artist, you’ll find helpful information in Creating Textures in Watercolor by Cathy Johnson, or Watercolor Textures by Ann Blockley.

Beginning artists are often overwhelmed by the idea of creating textures, and there are some important tips I’ve learned.

Tip #1: You don’t have to make an exact replication of what you see. Art is an illusion, and creating texture is doing just that — creating a believable illusion. Learn basic techniques to follow but don’t try to copy a reference in every detail.

Tip #2: Creating good textures is time-consuming. Newer artists often think the drawing process should be quick and easy. I’ve been guilty of this erroneous thinking myself! When working on textural areas, slow down, take your time, and enjoy the process.

Tip #3: Textural strokes tend to follow the cross contour lines of an object. Getting your strokes going in the right direction is the first step in creating the proper illusion.

Tip #4: Don’t allow your strokes to be mechanical or overly repetitive, otherwise your textures can end up looking artificial — not the effect you want.

Creating texture in a drawing can be a slow, methodical process, but it can be rewarding when you finish your work, step back, and see the results you’ve achieved. A good reference book can guide you when you’re working on a specific project, or it can serve as a great resource for drawing — or painting — exercises.

What textures do you most enjoy creating?

What tips or tricks do you have to share?

Do you have other book recommendations?