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A lot of the time people expect that if they don't start out amazing at something they just never will be. When it comes to drawing (or anything really) this just isn't the case. Even the most accomplished artists in the world needed lots and lots of practice and training.

These were the steps I learned in Art College:

1) If you're learning to draw then you probably have an interest in art. One of the best things you can do for yourself is to absorb as many different pieces as you can lay your eyes on.

Learn the history of art through the ages. Open your eyes to modernism. Don't just focus on pieces that appeal to you. It is alright to appreciate them, admire them, get copies to hang on your bedroom wall... but don't narrow your field of vision.

Take an art history course, buy an art history book, watch an art history program on the television. The library is a great place for a budding artist to spend some time. Look for books with lots of pictures.

2) Now that you've opened your eyes to all of the possibilities it is time to put pencil to paper. Choose a simple subject to begin with. A classic still life perhaps. Frame out one interesting portion. Composition is one of the foundations of a good piece.

Really look at your small section of still life. Draw only what you see, not what you know. We all know what a banana is supposed to look like, a crescent moon. But the banana before you will be skewed by perspective. It might look more like a circle when all is said and done. Really see it for the first time. You're retraining your eyes.

3) Experiment with different materials. A paper bag and some charcoal can make an amazing drawing. You don't need to be caught up in the hype of investing in the really expensive stuff. Art can be made with a ball-point pen if you know how to work it right.

4)Experiment with different subject matter.

-Do you prefer the organic forms? A stem, a leaf, or a tree can be great practice. Choose the knobbiest ones you can find.

-Do you prefer architectural forms? Some people just love to draw buildings. Work with the play of light and shadows.

-Do you prefer moving forms? Life drawing can happen any place some is living. If you can't find a willing human model draw an animal, or draw yourself in the mirror.

Learn more about this author, E. Rae Fallesen.
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