Still Life and the Practice of Drawing from Observation.

Over the past years of teaching drawing classes, I’ve often returned to still life as a starting point because I’ve seen how much it helps people settle into observation. When we draw from observation, we practice slowing down. We resist the urge to jump straight into details and instead begin with the overall composition, placing the large shapes, understanding the relationships between objects, and establishing proportion. From there, we gradually build the image step by step, moving into tonal values and smaller adjustments. This approach creates a clear structure. It builds patience and confidence, and it makes the logic of light and form easier to understand. Still life offers a calm setting in which these fundamentals can develop steadily.

At the same time, I don’t treat it as a fixed rule. Some people prefer to begin with the figure, though that can feel intimidating because expression and proportion are immediately visible. Working with objects can make the process feel more manageable at first. I also encourage using different materials, charcoal, ink, and pencil, because each one shapes the way we draw. Charcoal brings boldness and expressiveness; it allows for strong contrasts, broad gestures, and a more physical engagement with tone. Pencil supports careful measurement and subtle shifts. Ink offers a balance between control and playfulness, creating space for both structure and spontaneity. In class, we try to let the materials speak to us and discover what each of them can offer.

I’m really looking forward to welcoming you into my warm and cozy studio in Neukölln, where we can spend these last quiet days of winter drawing side by side and slowly move together into the beautiful first days of spring.

Warmly,

Alma Sinai