WHAT IS DRAWING?

I think a drawing is a line or series of lines, a mark, a print, a stain, a scratch or a tone created on a surface. The surface could be a material such as paper, or it could be a material such as air or water. Drawing is a language used to communicate and tell stories. A drawing could simply be made as a piece of art for others to look at and give pleasure. Drawing is connected to your brain, and by drawing something it can help you to visualise and understand, for example drawing a map or a architectural plan. A drawing is a record and a piece of information. Most drawings will last a long time and can help people to remember things. Drawings were important in history when there were no cameras and in times today such as court rooms where cameras are not allowed. A drawing can sometimes capture a time or moment more honestly than a photography. A drawing is usually created on purpose but it could be created by accident or by nature. Drawing is complex because it can be interpreted differently by different people. When drawing the artist or creator might have a certain idea or intention about what they are trying to communicate. The person viewing the drawing will have their own subjective response.

First Thoughts for the Building for the Great Exhibition of 1851
Joseph Paxton

 A drawing made to help the maker visualise thought.

Drawing to illustrate lectures on Botany
Christopher Dresser

Drawings made to describe or record.

Two Boys Aged 23 or 24
David Hockney

Drawings made as art to give pleasure.