Draw Mythical Creatures From Stories

Mythical creatures have captivated humans since we began telling stories from ancient times to fantasy fiction of today. 

Young artists who are fans of this genre are invited to learn strategies for more successful drawings of these creatures.

Learners can talk about them and the stories they appear in as we draw. 

Some of these creatures appear as 100% animal form (like Aslan from The Chronicles of Narnia by C.S. Lewis). Students will learn simple ways to make the mythical creature more than an ordinary animal.

Alternately, some mythical creatures appear almost entirely human. Therefore, this course will be a blend of learning to draw humans, animals and combination of, like a centaur. 

Other mythological creatures are a blend of two different animals, like Pagasus.

We will also delve into lesser known mythical creatures and stories, ones from various cultures, and whimsical modern ones like the “Push-me-Pul-you” from Dr.Dolittle.  

I am open to taking requests from students for mythical creatures not listed.

Drawing fundamentals will be woven into each lesson, like the importance of drawing with reference (supplied) and starting with simple shapes and angles. 

We will explore how to draw different textures (scales, fur, wool, cloth, tree bark, horns, wings, etc) and where to strategically add tone to give drawings the illusion of 3D. Also learn how to plan and compose your drawing for a more compelling final result.

Learning how to include some of the creature’s environment to help give it context and narrative will be covered. 

Note to parents: I am mindful of the research images and drawings shown to be age appropriate and not overly dark or disturbing (as some of these creatures are sometimes shown to be).

Some students may not finish their drawing by end of class. This is normal. Learners have the option to finish their piece on their own and share it beginning of next class, or privately (send it to me directly) for feedback.

Week of May 19: Dragon
Week of May 26: Basilisk
Week of June 2: Faun
Week of June 9 :Centaur
Week of June 16: Dryad
Week of June 23: Marsh-Wigglers
Week of June 30: Sea serpent
Week July 7: Ettin (type of giant)
Week of July 14: Ogre
Week of July 21: Werewolf
Week of July 28: Man headed bull
Week of August 4: Wraith
Week of August 11: Monopod
Week of August 18 Trufflehunter (Badger)
Week of August 25: Aslan (Lion)
Week of September 1: TBD