ABSTRACT
Chapter 5 describes the way of seeing involved in drawing from observation. Learning to draw is largely a matter of re-learning to see. This manner of seeing is distinct from the everyday looking we use to identify things and is characterized by close scrutiny of visual detail, noticing the unexpected, nonverbal knowing, selecting pertinent detail, discovering order, observing relationships between things, appreciating ordinary things anew, and wonder. This way of seeing is experienced as difficult and tiring, as well as profoundly meaningful. Each of these features of seeing is fleshed out with anecdotes from artists, hobbyists, and ns, and from my own drawing practice.
