2227 - Drawing Animals: Structure + Texture
Course Description

Illustration by Mollie Stone
Beginning with prehistoric cave art, humans have always been fascinated with capturing the form and grace of animals. Indeed, artists learn to create dynamic drawings by understanding the structure of the skeleton and animal musculature. This course is appropriate for illustrators, animal lovers and fine artists -- anyone interested in drawing animals -- and accommodates all skill levels. Working in the RISD Nature Lab, students begin with studies of animal skulls and skeletons to gain a better understanding of proportion and structure. They move on to examine the superficial musculature, motion and comparative anatomy of these specimens. The course also explores proportion and balance, and introduces Renaissance techniques for rendering well-defined three-dimensional form. Ultimately, experimentation with materials and techniques strengthens students' ability to render textural surface quality in depicting feathers, scales and fur. The course includes a Saturday visit to Roger Williams Park Zoo for a live session with real animals. Note: Previous drawing experience is helpful but not required. Lab fee does not cover zoo admission.
Applies Towards the Following Certificates
- Animation Certificate : Electives
- Graphic Design Certificate : Electives
- Interactive Design Certificate : Electives
- Natural Science Illustration Certificate : Electives
- Painting Studies Certificate : Electives
- Photography Certificate : Electives