Death takes many forms, but drawing a gravestone is an art form like no other. It takes a steady hand and a keen eye to be able to capture the emotion and solemnity of a sculpted memorial. But the good news is, it isn’t as hard as it looks. Whether you’re an art student or just a dabbler in the visual arts, here is a quick guide on how to draw a gravestone.
The first step is to choose your tools. Traditional pencils and charcoal are a great way to sketch out the preliminary drawing. Make sure to start light, as you can always darken the lines as the sketch progresses. It is also important to have a good eraser, as you will more than likely be using it often. Once you have your supplies ready, it is time to begin.
The second step is getting the shape of the grave marker down. The most standard shape is rectangular but they can also be circular, or even oblong. You can also choose to draw a double sided one with a slanted top. No matter the shape, use a light pencil to draw out the outline first and make sure to erase any lines that don’t fit within the shape you want.
On to step three. It is time to draw the details! If your gravestone has carved lettering, draw them in the areas where they would go. Most likely the lettering will go on the top or middle of the stone. Also add any decorative flourishes or designs that could be found on typical gravestones. A simple cross or angel wings are standard decorations. Again make sure to keep it light and don’t press too hard as you can always make it darker later.
The fourth step is shading. This is the step that really brings your drawing to life and gives it a 3D quality. Use the same pencil or charcoal you have been using and shade the inside of the stone. Make sure to use varied pressure to create depth. Also make sure to shade around the edges for a more rounded look.
The last step is to bring the image together and make it one cohesive drawing. This can be done by adding texture, either with a paper texture or a spray fixative or simply by adding a few rough lines or designs. You can also add a little color and make the drawing more vivid or by adding a light source to make contrasting shadows.
Now that you know the basics of how to draw a gravestone, the rest is up to you. Experiment with different shapes and textures and practice as much as you can. Over time you will find your own style, so dive in and start creating!
The next step when it comes to drawing a gravestone is to think about any additional details you might want to include. Do you want to include ornate designs or a specific painterly style? Think about the overall feel you’re trying to create. Are you going for something spooky and gothic, or ethereal and serene? Whatever it is, use your pencils and charcoals to bring these ideas to life.
The final step is to consider the context of your gravestone drawing. This is an important step, as it helps you determine where you’re placing the stone in the landscape. Use your pencils and charcoals to draw other elements that may be in the background such as trees, fences, and other graves. This will help to create a cohesive scene and complete your drawing.
Now that you know the fundamentals of how to draw a gravestone, it’s time to challenge yourself. Using the techniques and tips provided in this guide, start to draw a sketch of your own gravestone. Keep going until your design is perfected and you’re completely happy with the results. Once this is accomplished, you can proudly display your artwork proudly and be proud that you finally learned how to draw a gravestone.
A gravestone drawing is a great way to honor a loved one or commemorate a place that was special to you. It can also be used to create a lasting art piece that tells a story. Using the techniques discussed, anyone can draw a gravestone no matter what your artistic level. By following these simple steps and letting your imagination run free, you can create a beautiful memorial or tribute that will be cherished for years to come.
