Drawing on the Fundamentals
We have a rule about bedtime. Upstairs by 8, in bed to start relaxing by 8:15 and lights out at 8:30. We adjust that on the weekends by a half hour. While they are welcome to go to bed earlier but that’s not usually what happens. They’re kids… what can we expect? However, once they are upstairs, the process of brushing their teeth and being ready is pretty quick. Sometimes they grab a book to help them with their downtime but lately, they have both been grabbing their drawing books and a pencil. It’s calming and a great way for them to develop those skills.
What kind of mom would I be if I didn’t try to foster that enthusiasm? So that is what I did. I had been asked if I was interested in checking out a learn to draw DVD. Normally, learning DVDs aren’t our favorite. No matter how good they are, we’ve found they are not the best method for our family. The Drawing with Mark DVD series was different. Not only did the photos have a lot of character but the girls were also very interested and engaged in the experience.
The video shared tips and tricks on creating dimension and layout. When I peeked over their shoulder during the process, they informed me that it wasn’t done yet and might not look right because they hadn’t erased the lines yet. They were referring to the reference lines (or whatever they are called) that help ensure everything is proportionate and where it is meant to be.
I was so amazed by their interest in the details. Too often, they half listen then do their own thing. They focused and followed along for the entire video!
And the final result was awesome!
Now, here’s the clincher… remember how I said they don’t go to bed early? Like ever. Well, the other night they did. They asked me if I would go upstairs with them a half hour early so we could draw for each other. We each had paper and pencil in hand, sat together on the bed and took turns drawing a requested item for the person next to us. Then we shifted who we drew for. It was great bonding time and allowed me to really see them put some drawing skills to work.
Learning the fundamentals of drawing techniques goes a long way to building confidence in this art. Drawing with Mark, hosted by former Disney Illustrator Mark Marderosian, is a fantastic option. Grab one of his releases from Amazon for under $11!
Wow they did a great job at drawing their fish!! Sounds like a fun dvd to get and learn to draw!!!!
My kids are OBSESSED with drawing right now. I will have to give these a look!
Wow, they did a great job drawing the fish. My girls love their art class in virtual school. Maddie even got pretty good at drawing faces and eyes. I will have to check this out, the price is definitely right.
this looks really neat!! my kids LOVE to draw things. they are always asking me how to draw stuff and i’m not artistic that way at all
They did a great job. My daughter loves to draw although I am not good at it at all!
Your girls have way better drawing skills than me (and I took two different drawing classes in college, yikes!).
Wow, those girls have mad drawing skills! That video is a great buy as my boys get older.
That is awesome – my son and daughter would love this – what a great way to learn!
That is very cool! My girls would love this.
Impressive! My oldest son loves drawing – I need to look into these dvds for him. Thanks!
This looks like a lot of fun! My girls love to draw right now!
Wow, I really love that! It’s like you have an art teacher right in your house! Their drawings came out great!
For those looking for a great buy on these DVD’s, The publishing company is offering a special deal on all of them. Normally priced at 14.98, they are on sale for $11.98, BUT if you use coupon code “soundview” at checkout, not only will you get ANOTHER 15% OFF, but you will also get free shipping. So, your final cost will be a mere $10.18.
Visit http://www.disinfo.com/store and simply search for DRAWING WITH MARK. And don’t forget to use the coupon code to save!!
Thank you very much, Dan, for sharing a discount code for our readers! I’ve edited the post to quote your comment to ensure nobody misses the opportunity to save.
My kids love drawing, and anything artsy. This looks so cool.
How cool.. my kids love to draw, I bet they would love to learn how to draw… thanks for a great review.. your girls sure did a great job
I wish someone would put me to bed at 8. LOL This looks seriously awesome, though. What a great talent to nourish!!!
What a great program. My drawing could use a bit of help.
On YouTube is a sample lesson from the DVD Day with the Dinosaurs/Reach for the Stars. It teaches how to draw Saturn, so if you wanted to get a feel for how Mark teaches, you can. http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=i7OPzHDlNq8
What a great idea! I want this for myself! 🙂
My youngest is into drawing right now. I would love to get this for her.
My daughter is learning to draw. SO this is awesome
My daughter will love this! Thanks
This looks like something my kids would love.
I would like these, even as an adult.
These sound really neat! Ever since my one lesson in sketching Dusty at Disney Toon Studios, I’ve thought it would be fun to learn how to actually draw. I didn’t know they had video lessons, though – something to look into, thanks.