Understand Basic Anatomy
It’s easy to get lost in the artistic expression while drawing eyes without fully understanding a few basics. The human eye consists of an iris, a pupil, and an eyelid. A few simplified shapes can act as a great jumping off point for a realistic eye. Start with a curved triangle for an eyelid that outlines the eyeshadow, then add an oval for the iris and an even smaller circle for the pupil. Focusing on the highlights and shadows within each shape can add an extra layer of realism.
Get Creative with Color
The gorgeous complexity of eyes makes them an inspiring treat for any artist. While creating a realistic effect, don’t be afraid to get creative with the color palette. Colors like vibrant blues, purples, and greens can catch extra light while providing a whimsically unique outlook. Any look can be enhanced further with a bright splash of highlights and shadows to create definition.
Practice Makes Perfect
Creating an eye drawing may seem like an insurmountable task, but anyone can draw amazing eyes with enough practice. The complexities found in eyes can be daunting, but it’s important to take it one shape at a time. Mastering the basics, such as understanding some fundamental anatomy, will go a long way for any illustrator or doodler.
Make it Pop
Livening up the gaze with depth, texture, and a few simple lines can bring any drawing to life. After mastering the basics of color, highlights, and shadows, adding few extra layers of depth can truly capture the audience. Brow hairs, mascara lines, or even reflections in the tear ducts can give a small but powerful dose of realism.
Look for References
Discovering inspiring artwork can provide refreshers for anyone struggling with their drawing. Looking up various styles and perspectives can open the mind to unique approaches the eye drawing. Keeping sketchbooks of favorite references and observations can provide a library of ideas to heighten any drawing.
Beauty Lies in the Details
Adding minor details, such as subtle highlights or the slightest touch of eyebrow hairs, can vastly enrich any eye drawing. Even the crinkle of corner of eyes can bring an extra element of realism to any sketch. These small details may take a few extra seconds of effort, but can pay huge dividends in emotive painting.
Alter Proportions
Bringing unique touches to an eye drawing can be as easy as altering proportions. Experimenting with the angle and direction of an eyelid can help create a look of awe or alarm. Even something as small as changing the angle of size between the pupil and the iris can bring a dynamic feel to the drawing.
Focus On the Mood
Painting with light and shadows can add imposing drama to any eye drawing. Using dynamic shadows and highlights to bring out fear, sorrow, or joy can add extra layers of emotion to any drawing. Bringing out the mood of the drawing can be as subtle as a single line or as dramatic as a bright light.
