A Leaf a Day...

Aspen Leaf Sketch by Valerie Littlewood

In your observation visual journal (the green one) you are to take a few minutes everyday to observe a leaf and sketch what you see. Notice the texture of the leaf you have selected and think about how to capture its texture with a pencil. Consider adjusting the pencil pressure to produce a variety of tones. Do not hesitate to experiment with contrast and shading to capture the light and shadow created by the shape and curl of your leaf.

The image above is meant to provide both a source of inspiration and an example of how a pencil can be used to represent a leaf. See more of Valerie's sketches and drawings here.