Steps On How To Draw A Lotus
Connecting with nature can be a hard thing to do in these rushed times, but finding ways to embrace it can be both a creative and peaceful experience. A great way to do that is to learn how to draw a lotus.
1. Start with the Base
Drawing a lotus starts with an oval that is slightly wider on the bottom than at the top. This circle will be the outline of the lotus. From there, add a few curved lines next to the oval. These should be evenly spaced from the edge of the circle, and it will look like curving petals.
2. Create the Details
The next step is to add the details to make it look like a real lotus. Start by outlining each petal with a finer line and then draw in the pistils and stamens to the center. Be sure to make the center pistil slightly bigger than the others.
3. Add Color
Now that you’ve created the outline of the lotus, it’s time to add some color. Start with the outer edges and gradually add in lighter shades of purple or pink. Use darker tones in the middle of the petals and even some pale yellow accents to the center.
4. Outline & Shade
Once you’ve added color to the petals, it’s time to outline and shade the lotus. Start by using the pencil to draw a line around the perimeter of the petals and work your way in. Then use the same pencil to lightly blur the edges to give them a soft and realistic look. Finish off by adding shadows, depth and highlight to give the lotus a realistic and life like feel.
Steps To Make The Lotus More Realistic
Once you have your basics down, there are a few more steps that can take your lotus to the next level.
1. Add Mid-Flower Details
For a more realistic look, add a few mid-flower details. This could be things like a few petal-like shapes in the center or subtle imperfections in the petals for a more natural feel.
2. Create a Shadow
Adding a few drops of color around the edges of the lotus and the center can give the illusion that the lotus is casting a shadow or being lit from the side. You can also use this technique to show light reflecting from the petals.
3. Accentuate Smaller Details
For a truly life-like look, don’t forget to add detail to the smallest of petals and pistils. Accentuate the shadows and highlights to really make the tiny details pop and create a more realistic look.
Additional Tips To Keep In Mind
When drawing a lotus, keep in mind a few more things that will help you create an art piece that looks more realistic.
1. Keep The Contour Even
When creating the outline, it’s important to keep the contour even around the edge of the petals. Even if the petals appear uneven in the photo, keep your pencil strokes consistent and the outline clean.
2. Use Reference Photos
Using reference photos can help you recreate the look of lotus more accurately. Look for photos that show both the petals and the center so you can add all of the details as realistically as possible.
3. Experiment With Colours & Shapes
Finally, take some time to be creative and see what you can come up with. Change up the colors and the shapes of the petals to see what kind of new looks you can create. This is your chance to be creative and explore different design routes.
