There’s something mesmerizing about a well-drawn eye. It can capture a whole spectrum of emotions, from joy to sorrow, from mischief to wisdom. I remember being a kid, fascinated by how artists could bring such life to their portraits. My attempts, however, always ended up looking more like lopsided blobs than actual eyes. It wasn’t until I discovered the beauty of colored pencils that I started to see the potential to truly capture the intricacies of the human eye. With this medium, I found a way to create depth, texture, and even a hint of the soul staring back at me from the paper.
Image: matagrande.al.gov.br
This article will guide you through the process of drawing an eye using colored pencils, breaking down each step from sketching the basic shapes to adding subtle details. Whether you’re a seasoned artist or just beginning your artistic journey, you’ll find valuable tips and advice to help you create your own realistic and captivating eye drawings. Prepare to unlock the allure of the human eye and see the world of art through a new lens.
Choosing the Right Tools
The first step in any artistic endeavor is gathering the right tools, and drawing an eye with colored pencils is no exception. You’ll need a selection of colored pencils, a good quality drawing paper, a kneaded eraser, a blending tool, and a pencil sharpener. While some artists prefer using a range of pencils, from hard to soft, I’ve found that having soft (B) pencils for sketching and shading, and a selection of colored pencils with varying degrees of intensity works best.
The key for colored pencils is to choose from a wide variety of shades. You’ll need different shades of white, gray, and brown for the iris, as well as a range of colors for the surrounding area. Don’t be afraid to invest in quality pencils; they’ll make a big difference in the depth and vibrancy of your final drawing.
Step 1: Sketching Your Eye’s Foundation
Start with a light pencil sketch, using a soft pencil (like a 2B or 4B) for this initial outline. Begin by creating a simple almond shape for the eye itself. Inside the almond, sketch a smaller circle for the iris. This circle should be slightly off-center, towards the edge of the almond shape.
Next, add the pupil within the iris, making it a small black circle. Now, draw the outline of the eyelid, paying attention to the natural curve of the upper eyelid and the slight fold of the lower eyelid. Think about the position of the eye you are drawing – is it looking straight forward or to the side?
Step 2: Layering Colors for Depth
After completing your sketch, you can start layering your colored pencils to bring out the depth and texture of the eye. Use a light shade of grey for the iris and a darker shade of gray for the pupil. These initial layers should be light and subtle, forming the foundation for the final shading.
Next, add a light layer of skin tones to the surrounding area. For the upper eyelid, use a slightly darker skin tone compared to the surrounding skin. You can then add details like the eyelashes, using a dark grey or black colored pencil. Since eyelashes can be quite fine, avoid pressing too hard. Let the light strokes create a natural look.
Image: www.boredpanda.com
Step 3: Building Highlights and Shadows
To create realism and depth, you’ll need to add strong highlights and shadows. Using a white colored pencil, shade the top of the iris and the tear duct. These areas reflect light and should be lighter than the rest of the eye. For the shadows, use darker shades of grey and brown to create depth in the iris.
This is also the perfect time to add deeper tones to the surrounding skin. You can use shades of brown, purple, and peach for the skin around the eye. Don’t forget to create subtle shadows under the brow bone and around the nose.
Step 4: Refining Details and Blending
Now, use your blending tool to soften the color transitions. Gently rub over the iris, pupil, and surrounding area, ensuring smooth transitions between different shades. This will create a more natural and realistic look.
This is also a good time to add extra detail. For example, you can add a hint of red or pink to the bottom corner of the eye for a subtle blush. You can also use a white colored pencil to create highlights in the waterline and the lash line.
Step 5: Final Touches and Finishing
Once you’re happy with the blending and detail, you can further enhance your drawing. You can use a white colored pencil to create highlights on the eyelid and a lighter skin tone for the reflection in the iris.
This final step is all about refining the details and adding those final touches that make your eye drawing truly come to life. Use a light touch, especially with the white color and add a final layer of blending to ensure a seamless transition between all colors.
Tips for Drawing Eyes: Advice from an Artist
Drawing a realistic human eye requires a keen eye for detail, a steady hand, and a lot of practice. But with the right inspiration, materials, and techniques, you can create beautiful and expressive eye drawings. These are some tips to help you on your journey:
1. Reference Photos are Essential: Learning to draw human eyes effectively requires studying real-life references. Don’t rely solely on your memory or your imagination. Examine photos of real eyes, paying attention to the shape, the way light and shadow play across the surface, and the subtle variations in color.
2. Don’t Be Afraid to Experiment: Art is a journey of exploration, not a rigid formula. Try different techniques, experiment with various tools and materials, and find what works best for you. Every artist has their own unique style, and yours is waiting to be discovered.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: What is the best way to hold a colored pencil for drawing an eye?
A: Hold the colored pencil like you would a pen, but avoid gripping too tightly. You should have a light grip to allow for more fluidity and control in your strokes.
Q: How do I create a believable shine in the eye?
A: You can achieve a shine by using a very light shade of white or even a touch of gold colored pencil on the iris. Blend this gently to create a soft sparkle.
Q: What are some common mistakes to avoid when drawing an eye?
A: Avoid over-shading and creating unrealistic shapes. Make sure to use a light hand with the pencil. Avoid using too many colors, especially for the iris. Stick to a range of grays and browns at the beginning.
How To Draw An Eye: With Colored Pencils
Conclusion
Drawing realistic eyes with colored pencils can be a rewarding experience. By mastering the techniques discussed in this article, you can create incredible eye drawings that capture the beauty and depth of a person’s gaze. Remember to practice regularly, reference real-life images, and don’t be afraid to experiment with different approaches and techniques. Embrace your own artistic journey, and soon you’ll be creating eye drawings that are both remarkable and expressive.
Are you ready to begin your artistic journey by drawing your own awe-inspiring eyes? What challenges have you faced in the past while drawing eyes? Share your experiences in the comments below!
