Artist Documentation
About
@thinhnuen
thinhnuen@gmail.com
©2024 Thinh Nguyen
Drawing at SCAD
My time learning drawing at SCAD was nothing short of transformative. It was the first time I ever took a proper drawing class, and it quickly became one of the most exciting and eye-opening experiences of my artistic journey. From the very first day, I was immersed in the world of lines, values, and forms, where I was introduced to classical drawing techniques that became the foundation of my practice. One of the most impactful lessons was learning the fundamentals of chiaroscuro — the dramatic contrast between light and dark that brings depth and emotion to a drawing.
Mastering chiaroscuro was a game-changer for me. I learned how to observe light as it hits a subject, how shadows wrap around forms, and how subtle gradations of value can create the illusion of three-dimensional space on a flat surface. It was fascinating to see how a simple shift in contrast could change the entire mood or feel of a piece. The interplay of light and shadow became a tool not only for rendering forms but for telling a story.
Charcoal quickly became my medium of choice during these studies. It was messy, tactile, and incredibly expressive. I loved the way it allowed for deep, velvety blacks and soft transitions of light, perfect for capturing the subtleties of chiaroscuro. I went through so much charcoal in those classes that I often found myself covered in it by the end of a session. It became a kind of badge of honor — the messier my hands, the more intensely I had been working. Learning to control the medium took time, as did developing the patience to build up layers of value without losing the delicate light areas that gave the drawing life.
This hands-on experience helped me appreciate the nuances of traditional drawing techniques and taught me the importance of observation and precision. I began to see the world in terms of light and shadow, constantly analyzing the way light interacted with objects and spaces around me. This shift in perspective fundamentally changed the way I approached not just drawing, but all forms of art.
Looking back, I realize how pivotal those first drawing classes were in shaping my understanding of art. They gave me the tools to push my creativity and technical abilities further than I thought possible, and I’m eager to continue developing these skills as I move forward in my artistic journey.