Mar 06 2009
Drawing the Trees.
Trees are often difficult for artists. There are tree symbols, and there are tree renditions. In a painting, symbols are more important than renditions. Solving the “tree problem” involves knowing how trees grow. Looking at a tree, we see only a part of the tree. A lot of the tree is below the ground. Hence, to make your tree realistic (or truly symbolic) your tree must look as if it is anchored to the ground.
There are a few ways in which to achieve this anchoring: [1]
1. Consider carefully the lay of the land, and then place some roots along the path;
2. Place land and foliage in front of the tree’s connection to the ground;
3. Place indications of “roundness” around the base of the tree.
Fig. 1 Roots along the path.
Fig. 2 Land and foliage in front of tree.
Fig. 3. Indications of roundness around the base of tree.
[1] Figures from “The Artist’s Magazine, Aug. 1995, pg. 10 ff, including an ad.
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