Why Drawing Is a Way of Thinking: Lessons from Rembrandt
from Simon Kogan
Quick answer: Drawing is a way of thinking, not just a technical skill. Artists like Rembrandt used drawing to explore movement, composition, and emotion, often revising ideas directly on the page. Copying master drawings, with a focus on movement and composition rather than anatomy, is one of the most effective ways to improve your own drawing.
Why is drawing considered a way of thinking?
Drawing isn’t just a skill. It’s how artists explore movement, composition, and emotion, often refining their ideas right on the page. There’s no reason to hesitate when it comes to studying and learning with a pencil (or pen) in hand.
How did Rembrandt use drawing to study movement?
Rembrandt van Rijn’s drawings reveal how he studied movement, often prioritizing structure over anatomical accuracy. Simon once came across a small, unexpected Rembrandt sketch in a European museum, only about six inches by six inches. It was fascinating to see how Rembrandt worked through a figure’s movement in stages (see below).
One version of the drawing, done in red chalk, showed a man in motion, but Rembrandt wasn’t satisfied. He adjusted the placement of the legs and refined the angles to increase the tension in the pose. The difference was striking: one figure appeared static, while the other had an undeniable sense of energy. This wasn’t about anatomy. It was about making the movement more powerful and believable.
What can Rembrandt teach us about composition?
Another remarkable example is Rembrandt’s drawing of figures carrying the body of Christ (see below). More than a study of figures, it’s a masterclass in composition, weight, and space.
The way the figures carry the body makes the heaviness feel real. Their positioning guides the eye through the composition, creating depth through thoughtful placement rather than excessive detail. The spacing between figures and their gestures strengthens the storytelling, making the scene feel emotionally charged.
How can copying master drawings improve your skills?
If you want to improve your drawing, don’t hesitate to copy great works. Focus less on anatomy and more on movement, composition, and emotion. As you copy, ask yourself:
How can I influence the flow of the composition?
How can I exaggerate the structure of a figure to emphasize movement?
What is the real purpose of drawing?
Drawing is more than a technical exercise. It’s about translating three-dimensional space onto a two-dimensional surface so the scene comes alive.
So pick up your pencil, study the masters, and most importantly, think with your pencil in hand.
With personalized guidance, Simon helps students refine their artistic skills by focusing on movement, composition, and emotional depth in sculpting and creating. Find his next open enrollment period below: