Blind Contour

Definition

• “Blind”– Unable to see, sightless

• “Contour”– An outline, especially one representing or bounding the shape or form of something.

Definitions

• “Blind Contour” is:– Drawing an image WITHOUT looking at your

paper.– You draw a continuous line, without lifting it off

the paper.– “Make up lines” when you need to move to

another area.

Definitions

• “Blind contour” is a drawing exercise that allows you to “see” beyond what you think you see.

• It’s NOT supposed to “look good”• Blind contour is used to “train your eye” to

look for details.

Examples of Blind Contour

Examples of Blind Contour

Examples of Blind Contour

• This is “blind contour” done in a gallery ready piece of art.

• The artist here (Sandy Brunvand) drew “blind contour” ;leaves over and over again.

First Project

• Grab three sheets of paper and an art pencil.• If your pencil is not sharpened there is a

sharpener at the front of the class behind my computer.

First Project• Get into groups of 3.• Each person needs to face a different person

in their group.

First Project

• Draw the person you are facing.• Do the best you can.• DO NOT draw in “blind contour style.” • You have 3 minutes.

Second Project

• On a new sheet of paper please draw the same person, this time in “blind contour.”

• Remember to NOT look at your paper and to NOT pick your pencil off the page.

• If your hand gets tired, just stop, but still do not pick a pencil off the page.

• Do this for 3 minutes.

Third Project

• Finally, redraw the same person on a new sheet of paper.

• This time focus on the detail.• Take 3 times.