Member-only story

How to Draw London: A Comprehensive Guide by Mark Bergin

Dale Mitchell

·15.2k Followers· Follow

Published in How To Draw London Mark Bergin

4 min read

1.4k View Claps

78 Respond

Save

Listen

A Pencil Drawing Of The London Skyline By Mark Bergin, Featuring The Houses Of Parliament, Big Ben, And The London Eye. How To Draw London Mark Bergin

London, a city steeped in history and brimming with iconic landmarks, is a captivating subject for any artist. Whether you're a seasoned pro or just starting out, this comprehensive guide by renowned artist Mark Bergin will empower you to capture the essence of London on paper. With his expert guidance and detailed step-by-step instructions, you'll learn how to draw the city's most recognizable structures, from the majestic Houses of Parliament to the vibrant London Eye.

Step 1: Sketching the Thames River

Our journey begins with the River Thames, the lifeblood of London. Lightly sketch the meandering river, paying attention to its gentle curves and bends. Use a soft pencil to create a subtle base that can be easily erased and adjusted later.

How to Draw London

by Mark Bergin

5 out of 5

Language	:	English
File size	:	23780 KB
Screen Reader	:	Supported
Print length	:	32 pages

Step 2: Drawing the Houses of Parliament

Next, we'll tackle the iconic Houses of Parliament. Start by sketching the rectangular base and the central tower, Big Ben. Add the intricate details of the windows, turrets, and spires, paying close attention to their proportions. Use a combination of straight lines and curves to capture the grandeur of this historic building.

Step 3: Adding the Tower of London

To the east of the Houses of Parliament lies the Tower of London. Sketch the rectangular walls and cylindrical towers, focusing on the contrast between the smooth surfaces and the rugged stone textures. Use short, choppy strokes to create a sense of depth and age.

Step 4: Drawing Tower Bridge

Now, let's move on to another iconic landmark – Tower Bridge. Begin by sketching the two tall towers with their pointed arches. Add the drawbridge and its intricate railings, capturing the interplay of straight lines and curves. Use a ruler or a straight edge to ensure the bridge looks balanced and symmetrical.

Step 5: Adding the London Eye

To the west of the Palace of Westminster, you'll find the London Eye. Sketch a large circle for the main wheel and add the individual capsules. Use a compass or a circular template to ensure the circle is perfectly round. Pay attention to the reflections and shadows created by the glass capsules.

Step 6: Capturing the Vibrant Atmosphere

With the main landmarks in place, it's time to add life and atmosphere to your drawing. Sketch people walking along the riverbank, crossing bridges, or sitting in cafes. Use a variety of pencil strokes to create a sense of movement and energy.

Step 7: Adding Details and Shadows

To enhance the depth and realism of your drawing, add details and shadows. Use a sharp pencil to draw the intricate details of the buildings, such as the windows, doors, and moldings. Use cross-hatching and shading techniques to create shadows and highlights, enhancing the three-dimensionality of the scene.

Congratulations! You have now completed your drawing of London. Whether you're a seasoned artist or a beginner, this guide has provided you with the skills and knowledge to capture the essence of this vibrant city. Remember, practice and perseverance are key when it comes to drawing. Keep sketching, experimenting with different techniques, and most importantly, enjoy the creative process.

How to Draw London

by Mark Bergin

5 out of 5