The perceptual foundations of drawing ability

Observational drawing is fundamental to artistic
practice, by enhancing perceptual processing (Kozbelt,
2001; Seeley & Kozbelt, 2008) and creativity
(Chan & Zhao, 2010; Pratt, 1985) regardless of an
artist’s specialist medium. However, the perceptual
and memorial processes underlying drawing ability
remain poorly characterized. The aim of this
exploratory study was to measure the contribution
of visual long-term memory, visual perception and
attitudes and abilities in education, to drawing.
Long term memory was found to be correlated
with drawing ability, confirming previous findings
(McManus et al., 2010). Specific visual perceptual
faculties such as the identification and reproduction
of geometric characteristics also accounted for
a proportion of the variability in drawing ability.
However, learning disabilities such as dyslexia were
not predictive of inaccurate drawing. In light of
these findings, pedagogical methods are proposed
using an Eight Step Strategy, which focuses upon
elements of the visual scene such as figure/ground
and spatial relationships.

Symposium - 28 to 29 October, 2011