I can’t draw. At least, for sixty four years, I’ve been convinced that I can’t draw. But this book is teasing me with the possibility that I might be able to learn to draw. I don’t know, but I’m going to try.

The Art & Science of Drawing: Learn to Observe Analyze, and Draw Any Subject by Brent Eviston. Mr. Eviston, an experienced art teacher says, “Drawing is not a talent. It is a skill anyone can learn.” He says he’s been teaching people of all ages to draw for almost twenty-five years. So, I took up the challenge, read through the introductory material about “how to use this book” and “overview of the drawing process” and “materials and set-up.” Then I began with the first lesson: How to Draw Lightly. Each lesson in this book has a practice project, and the project for this lesson was to draw light, almost imperceptible, lines using an overhand grip. I hated the overhand grip that Mr. Eviston prefers, but I can sorta, kinda see its usefulness. Anyway, I’m going to persist.

I can’t review this entire book now because it’s going to take me a year or two to get through all of the mini-lessons in the book. These lessons move from basic skills, like drawing simple shapes, to form and space, drawing three-dimensional shapes, to measuring and proportion, to mark making and contours, to dramatic light and shadow, to figure drawing. I don’t know how many small lessons there are in the book because the lessons aren’t numbered. But the author says to take them in order, and there are a lot of mini-lessons. He also recommends doing no more than one lesson per day, perhaps even one lesson per week. One lesson per week, with daily practice, is my goal.

“This book will guide you through the entire drawing process.” I’m counting on it, Mr. Eviston. I would recommend the book for beginners like me and for experienced artists who want to have a framework for practice and honing drawing skills. I’m looking forward to working my way through the fundamentals of drawing.