Drawing from reference vs. Drawing from observation

In this workshop we drew from reference and from observation to learn the difference between the two, and the merits of both ways of recording information. Drawing from reference is when you use a visual aid such as a photograph or an exiting image, whether observational drawing is recording something directly from life. 

This is a drawing I did from reference material. I like the lines and marks I have used to describe the flow of the clothing and the way in which it sits on the model. Being the 2nd time I drew this subject, I also had more consideration for composition. On the other hand I feel that the figure is out of proportion and I could have definitely been better in my use of tone. 

These are two observational drawings I did during the workshop. I choose these drawings because they show my experimentation with different ways of recording the shape and texture of the plant. 

A key aspect of this workshop was also producing multiple drawings of one subject. Repetitive drawing can be a really positive exercise because -  - it makes you evaluate your subject more closely, especially as you start to notice things that you did not necessarily see the 1st or 2nd time around.  - As you become more comfortable with the subject  you get more experimental with the methods of drawing and mark making techniques you are using.  - It allows your own tone of voice to start developing in the work more naturally and you start to develop a really authentic representation of the subject.  The key things I learnt from this workshop are - - That it is important to regularly draw from reference, from observation and also from your imagination, as all three feed into each other and help you to develop your own tone of voice. - Experimenting with how I draw and record information is key to improving my practical drawing skills, and so I should stop resting on what I know and constantly try new things even if they fail. - That repetitive drawing will also be very important in helping me to improve my skills. - To actively think about how I am recording and then translating what I see in front of me so that I am not just creating a realistic representation, but a drawing that contains my own tone of voice and personal perception of the subject - because this is more interesting!