Traditional cast drawing and drapery study, classical figure drawing.

Traditional cast drawing and drapery study are an in-valuable method of study.  It provides a tremendous opportunity to develop ones observational skills and, drawing and rendering techniques.  By taking an unusual and exciting approach to this subject matter, the process becomes much more rewarding and enlightening, not just a labor intensive exercise in measurements.  Try dramatic lighting techniques and approach your drawing in a constructive manner, think, how  was this made, constructed, not how will I ever finish this.  It is much more fun and keeps you totally  engaged instead of fearing the lengthy process of surface rendering.  Always think of the whole and not the polish.

Head studies, grisaille studies on canvas, classical figurative drawing, realism.

Grisaille studies, oil on canvas, contemporary realism, classical figure drawing.
 These studies are of Gabriela, a favorite model at the New York Academy of Art, she's currently in Barcelona.  The technique is a rather simple one.  Burnt Sienna on a neutral gray ground.  I scummble the paint on the canvas straight from the tube, no turps or linseed oil.  Keep the paint layer thin by removing excess with a brush or paper towel, I use my finger.  Similar to a rub-out technique. Use your turps to make drawing adjustments, use as little as possible so as not to compromise the surface of the canvas ground.  After the initial set-up, I let the paint set-up. I'll come back to it later and enhance the darks.