Charles River Esplanade, Boston, MA; #2 pencil

Water

Bodies of water are usually contained as a lake, a pond, a river, a waterfall, or an ocean. In other words, water cannot be seen and drawn alone. There is often something else besides water, something that holds it, something that frames it, or something that allows water to fall on it. There are the riverbanks, the shorelines, the edge of a swimming pool, the edge of a fountain, and the rocks or cliffs beside the waterfall.

Water can also be expressed indirectly by sketching the associated subject matter. For example, by sketching a boat with waves around it you imply that the boat is bobbing in the water. A few sails on the horizon line create an image of a distant regatta in full action. Reflection brings out the mirror effect and stillness

of the water’s surface.

Water seeks a level and horizontal surface, so the best way to sketch it is to start with a simple horizontal line by pulling the pencil across the page. To maintain a sharp and consistent line, turn the pencil slightly when pulling it across. Use short horizontal strokes to create an uneven surface, and use slightly curved horizontal strokes to show the waves in action. Repeat these patterns in a horizontal manner down the page if necessary to give the sketch a sense of depth. Varying the values of the lines and shading also suggests motion on the water’s surface as well as how the water reacts with light.