Charcoal Drawing Techniques (Ages 13-18)

Charcoal Drawing Techniques is a structured studio art course designed for teens who want to explore expressive drawing while strengthening foundational art skills. Using charcoal as the primary medium, students will learn how artists create depth, movement, texture, and dramatic contrast through value-based drawing techniques.

Throughout the course, students will study important drawing concepts including value, light and shadow, contrast, gesture drawing, texture, composition, and tonal layering. Lessons are designed to help students better understand how drawings are built through observation, controlled mark-making, and thoughtful use of shading.

Students will practice techniques such as:

• blending and smooth tonal transitions

• creating highlights and deep shadows

• gesture and expressive mark-making