Drawing Portraits in Charcoal with Sandra Jabaut

Reductive charcoal drawing, also known as negative drawing, is an inventive process in which the artist first darkens, to some degree, an entire sheet of paper with charcoal, then smudges and blends the pigmentation to a smooth, even gray.

A kneaded eraser, putty rubber, or pencil eraser is used to remove areas of charcoal, creating highlights and tonal variations by revealing the paper underneath. By selectively removing the medium, artists create a range of tonal values—from highlights to shadows—and establish shapes and form to create a sense of depth. Details are then added to complete the portrait.

All levels welcome. All supplies and materials will be provided.

• Bring a photograph of someone to draw for your portrait. Make sure it has areas of strong light and shadows.

$35 LARAC Members / $45 Non-Members