Portrait Drawing: A Step-by-Step Art Instruction Book

Portrait Drawing is a classic step-by-step art instruction book by Wendon Blake, with drawings by John Lawn. This digital PDF edition makes the complete guide available for instant download. Begin learning immediately on your preferred reading device.

The book covers the materials, methods, and visual principles needed to draw the human face. It focuses on pencil, chalk, and charcoal techniques, with demonstrations that show the entire drawing process.

Book Overview

Portrait Drawing is part of The Artist’s Painting Library and was published by Watson-Guptill Publications in 1981. Wendon Blake provides clear instruction, while John Lawn’s drawings illustrate each step. The book belongs in the Art category and is written for artists, students, and anyone interested in drawing portraits.

The guide begins with equipment and basic form, moves through each facial feature, and finishes with ten full portrait demonstrations. It also explains how different lighting affects the character of a portrait.

What You’ll Discover Inside

• Step-by-step drawings of the eye, mouth, nose, and ear in front, three-quarter, side, and tilted views.
• Ten complete portrait demonstrations using pencil, chalk, and charcoal.
• Advice on selecting pencils, chalk, charcoal, erasers, drawing boards, stomps, and other tools.
• Instructions for using the egg-shaped head and tonal gradations of light, halftone, shadow, and reflected light.
• A review of four effective lighting types for portrait drawing.

Why This Book Matters

Portrait Drawing reflects a thoughtful teaching tradition that emphasizes clear, repeatable steps. The detailed demonstrations allow readers to follow along as each portrait develops from first stroke to finished drawing. For artists and art students, this book offers a solid foundation in an enduring subject.

Book Details

Device Compatibility

This is a digital download, so there is no physical shipping. Once your purchase is complete, you will receive access to the PDF file. It can be viewed on desktop computers, tablets, smartphones, and compatible e-readers using appropriate PDF reading apps or Kindle apps.

FAQ

How do I get access after purchase? Your PDF download will be available immediately after checkout from your account or download page.

Will I receive a physical book? No. This is a digital product, and only the PDF file is delivered.

Can I read it on my device? Yes. The PDF works with most devices that support PDF viewing, including computers, tablets, phones, and reading apps.

Start with the first lesson today. Portrait Drawing is ready to download so you can practice at your own pace.