Drapery: The Russian Approach

In week one, Iliya will demonstrate how to draw and describe the general structure of the pipe fold, which will allow you to reconstruct it from your imagination. You learn how to create a structure for analyzing and drawing drapery.

In week two, you will study the approach to rendering the diaper fold. You will learn how to identify the “eyes” of the fold. Understanding every element of this fold will allow you to construct it from imagination and simplify it while working from life.

In week three, Iliya will teach you how to analyze and draw the half-lock fold. You will learn to render the cast and occlusion shadows to help enhance the illusion of three-dimensional space and add realism to your drawing.

In week four, Iliya will teach you how to observe, construct, and render the zigzag fold. You will learn how to draw the fold when it is hung from the point of tension and placed over a cylindrical form, commonly found in pant legs or sweater sleeves.

In week five, you will learn to draw and render the spiral fold, another fold seen in loose-fitting sleeves and pant legs. You will expand on your ability to describe drapery, movement, and fabric weight over a cylindrical form.

In week six, Iliya demonstrates how to draw and render an inert cloth or a cloth that rests on any surface. You will apply your understanding of fabric weight and construction of the folds to complete this drawing.

In week seven, Iliya will show you how to draw fabric over a figure. You will learn to group values over a large area to create separation and unity in your drawing.

In week eight, you will learn how to bring your draped figure drawing to a polished finish. Iliya will show you how to refine your halftones and shadows. He will clarify the texture and secondary forms of the fabric.