Drapery – The Russian Approach by Iliya Mirochnik (2023)

In this 8-week program, Iliya Mirochnik will be your guide to the Russian Academic method of observing and drawing drapery. You will learn how to properly capture the six different types of folds in your drawings. Iliya will demonstrate the impact gravity has on fabric and how incorporating folds in your artwork can add movement. By the end of this course, you will have a complete understanding of how to incorporate cloth and folds into your drawings, resulting in a beautifully draped, clothed figure.

Week 1: Introduction to the Pipe Fold

• Overview of the Pipe Fold structure and its key elements
• Techniques for reconstructing the Pipe Fold from imagination
• Analytical approach to drawing drapery

Week 2: Mastering the Diaper Fold

• Study of the Diaper Fold and its elements
• Techniques for identifying the “eyes” of the fold
• Constructing the Diaper Fold from imagination and life observation

Week 3: The Art of Half-Lock Fold

• Analysis and rendering of the Half-Lock Fold
• Adding realism to drawings with cast and occlusion shadows
• Enhancing the illusion of three-dimensional space

Week 4: The Zigzag Fold in Detail

• Observing, constructing, and rendering the Zigzag Fold
• Drawing the fold when hanging from a point of tension or over cylindrical forms
• Understanding the movement and fabric weight of the fold

Week 5: The Beauty of the Spiral Fold

• Rendering the Spiral Fold, seen in loose-fitting sleeves and pant legs
• Expanding your ability to describe drapery, movement, and fabric weight

Week 6: Understanding Inert Cloth

• Techniques for drawing and rendering inert cloth or cloth resting on a surface
• Applying knowledge of fabric weight and fold construction to complete the drawing

Week 7: Draped Figure – Part I

• Drawing fabric over a figure
• Grouping values over a large area to create separation and unity in the drawing

Week 8: Draped Figure – Part II

• Refining halftones and shadows to bring the draped figure drawing to a polished finish
• Clarifying the texture and secondary forms of the fabric to add depth to the drawing.