Drawings

Drawing is a visual representation created by marks made on a surface, usually paper, with tools such as graphite, charcoal, ink, or pastels. It can function as a preliminary study for other art forms or as an end in itself, emphasizing line, tone, and form over color and texture.

Common media include graphite pencils, charcoal, ink, pen and nib, chalk, and pastel. Techniques range from contour and gesture drawing to shading, hatching, cross-hatching, stippling, and blending. Surfaces vary from smooth drawing paper to textured stock and boards.

Historically, drawing has played a central role in many cultures. Prehistoric cave drawings and studies by Renaissance masters show its use for observation and planning. In later centuries drawing supported both scientific diagramming and architectural drafting.

Digital drawing uses computer software and input devices such as graphics tablets and styluses, allowing layers, undo, and scalable vector or raster formats. Many artists combine traditional and digital methods.

In education and practice, drawing develops observation, spatial reasoning, and manual skill. Notable practitioners include Leonardo da Vinci, Michelangelo, Rembrandt, Degas, Picasso, and contemporary illustrators and concept artists.