Field Study ~ Ink and Wash

Drawing has been an important tool throughout the history of science

In ancient Greece, protoscientists such as Aristotle drew to help them understand animal anatomy.

In Renaissance Italy, Leonardo da Vinci’s drawing-based investigations of the erosive force of water predated fluid mechanics by several centuries.

In the seventeenth century, Maria Sybilla Merian was the first to study and depict ecologically accurate insect life cycles foreshadowed contemporary ecology
ASSIGNMENT
Field Sketching  LINE AND WASH
Field sketches are an effective way of building observational learning experiences that have a geographical focus or intent. 

In geography, we use field sketches to record information when studying places outside the classroom allowing us to highlight and annotate the key features of a place being observed. Field and photo sketches can also be used to illustrate stories and reports. 
When drawing field sketches, you should not seek to reproduce every element of the place (landscape) being observed. Rather, you should highlight the principal geographical features being observed.
Sketches are judged on their ability to communicate information rather than their artistic merit. However, with practice in direct observation, your artistic skills will improve!

Focus on the features to be sketched. It may be helpful to use a viewing frame (a rectangular frame approximately the same shape as the sheet of paper on which the sketch is to be drawn).
Divide the scene into three parts:
a foreground
b middle distance 
​c background.
Sketch in the main features or lines of the scene you are observing. This may include the horizon and other prominent landform features.
Mark in other prominent features or lines (such as roads, railway lines and rivers). These provide reference points for the addition of more detailed features.
Add detail if appropriate. The details might include buildings, trees and fences.
Add notation of shaded areas, color and observations about the scene or environment. Avoid making the sketch too cluttered.
Label the main features shown in your sketch.

STEPS:
NO PENCIL—use only Micron Pen to record your observations
Use all your senses-leave electronics behind!
Annotate – your observations by adding comments your drawing such as the date, weather, sounds, etc
Use various sketching techniques: Blind Contour, Contour, Gestural

DAY TWO
Add small textural details if needed and watercolor wash
Always good to watch YouTube Videos especially if you missed the demo
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YouTube Tutorials










Student Examples: