0:00
/
0:00

Paid episode

The full episode is only available to paid subscribers of Introvert Drawing Club

Switching on drawing mode

A tried-and-true technique that might reduce stress and overwhelm.

Because I’m very stubborn, I tend to resist some of the greatest drawing techniques. It seems like the more I dislike a drawing technique, the more beneficial it is to my practice.

Fortunately, I learned that being on the edge of discomfort is the place to be for artistic growth. If you dislike this technique at first, it might mean it’s exactly what you need to push you toward your next exciting breakthrough!

Why does flipping your image upside down work?

In Betty Edwards’ Drawing on the Right Side of the Brain, she tells us that our logical left-brain hemisphere can’t process an upside-down image, so we draw using our right-brain side. That’s the part that brings us into that blissful, meditative state of awareness, where we’re fully present and focused on the subject and drawing. No self criticism or judgments arise once we’ve made that shift.

Prompt

  • Draw the image below right side up, then upside down.

  • Recommended time: 1, 2, and 5 minutes.

  • Suggested materials: Marker, crayon, paint, or pencil!

Woman standing on right leg with lift leg extended reaching for her footWoman standing on right leg with lift leg extended reaching for her foot
This is the reference I drew in the video. Try it!

These exercises aren’t for creating masterpieces. But if you do them enough, you’ll amaze yourself!

You know who LOVES an upside down drawing?

! She starts a lot of her art upside down and incorporates it into her lessons and practice. I’m excited for her portraits class next month! She shared a special 30% off code for Introvert Drawing Club members below.

Listen to this episode with a 7-day free trial

Subscribe to Introvert Drawing Club to listen to this post and get 7 days of free access to the full post archives.