DrawWithMike.net

Hello. I am in need of a little advice please:
This drawing is of a lady relaxing on a balcony, overlooking a garden areas full of trees. I have tried to add some depth to the drawing by testing out my 'drawing hair techniques'. It is not perfect, but I am sure that in time the practice will be of benefit.
One more issue I have found myself trying to workout is the contrast element. I feel the main focal point is on the lady's hair. So, I do not want too much details on other things as this might distract a viewer. The balcony rails are black, which I feel is ok. But having drawn the chair she is sitting on it looks a little lifeless. That has got me thinking of how to draw realism without distraction from the main focal point and by showing contrast also.
Thank you for reading this and please do send any ideas my way!
With thanks.
Andrew from Bath

Hi Andrew. I can’t help with all of your questions, although they are very good observations, but if it helps at all, I can share my first reaction. I like that the balcony posts are dark, and that the chair is light. Both tell me immediately that one is metal and the other is wood.

If you can make a copy of your drawing so as to experiment on the copy, and not on the original, maybe try reducing the contrast in the hair. There would be contrast at the crown, as you have shown, because of the shine, and maybe where the hair flows over the back of the chair too, but I would blend the other areas a little more.

It’s a lovely composition and will make a wonderful gift for the sitter in the drawing!

Dear Laurene,
You have been very kind in offering your time to look at my drawing. Thank you. And thanks also for the beneficial comments you have mentioned. 'First impressions' are of utmost importance I feel. They can make a viewer want to look deeper into the story of a composition. Everything you have kindly said will be noted as I continue with this.
Wishing for you to have a lovely weekend!
From Andrew