How to draw an op art design

Welcome! This blog post features a guided tutorial of how to draw an op art design. This activity helps artists to build skills using the elements of art: SPACE, LINE, & VALUE. Using the principle of design, RHYTHM, the design produces an optical illusion that looks like it is moving into the middle and oddly vibrating! This composition can be done with a range of art materials, and finalized with creative color choices.

Here is a basic materials list that produces a cool black and white design as seen in this tutorial:

• White drawing paper
• Pencil for sketching
• Straight edge/ruler
• Black sharpie or marker
• White and black colored pencils

STEP 1:

On a piece of drawing paper, simply put a lightly drawn dot in the middle!

*TIP- Consider placing the dot somewhere other than the middle! Here is a student example…*

STEP 2:

Use a straight edge or a ruler to lightly draw a ‘+’ sign through the middle point.

STEP 3:

Use a straight edge or a ruler to lightly draw an ‘X’ through the middle point.

STEP 4:

Starting in the middle, begin lightly drawing curved lines (like a rainbow). Make the curved lines gradually space out more as you move away from the middle point. This will give the illusion that it is getting closer together towards the middle.

Aim for at least 6-7 lines in the section.

STEP 5:

Repeat STEP 4 but alternate the direction of the curved line (like a smile). Make sure that these curved lines connect to the previously drawn lines.

STEP 6:

Continue this pattern of alternating rhythm throughout the entire design. Take your time to ensure that all lines connect.

STEP 7:

Using a tool of your choice and a color of your choice, fill the sections to create a pattern.

*TIP* Sharpie works great here because you can layer colored pencil on top easily later in the process to add shadows and highlights.

STEP 8:

Alternate the pattern in the next section so that opposites are lining up.

STEP 9:

Repeat this technique to fill the entire design.

STEP 10:

Add a blended white highlight down the middle of each section. A white colored pencil works well on most art mediums!

STEP 11:

Add a blended dark shadow in the corners of each section. A black colored pencil works well to create the shadow.

… And voila!