Black Label Society is a heavy metal band that has been around since the late 90s. Their music is intense and their stage presence is unique. If you are a fan of the band, trying to draw its iconic logo or its members can be a fun and challenging experience. In this guide, we will provide step-by-step instructions on how to draw the band’s logo and Zakk Wylde, the founder, and lead guitarist of the band.
Materials needed
- A piece of paper
- A pencil
- An eraser
- A black pen or marker (optional, for outlines)
- Shading tools such as charcoal or colored pencils (optional)
Basic Shapes
Before you start drawing, it’s important to understand basic shapes. The Black Label Society logo consists of a skull with horns and wings. To draw the skull, start by sketching a circle on your paper. Divide the circle into four equal parts using light pencil strokes. Next, draw a horizontal line that intersects in the middle of the circle, and a vertical line in the middle. The intersection of these two lines will be the center of the skull and where the eyes, nose, and mouth will be drawn.
Adding Details
After drawing the basic shape of the logo, it’s time to add the details. Draw two almond-shaped eyes with small circles inside them, a nose in the shape of a small triangle, and a wide smile for the mouth. Draw two curved horns on either side of the skull and a pair of wings at the back. Make sure to use light pencil strokes for the details and adjust as necessary until you’re happy with the proportions.
Outlines
Once you’re satisfied with the sketch, use a black pen or marker to outline the final design. You can also darken the eyes, nose, and mouth, making the smile wider and giving the skull a more menacing appearance. Be careful not to use too much ink, as this can make the drawing rigid and unnatural.
Shading
Finally, you can add shading to make the drawing more vibrant. This is optional and depends on your preference. Use a charcoal pencil, colored pencil, or whatever other materials you have on hand. Choose an area to shade, for instance, the horns or wings, and use a cross-hatching technique. Start with light strokes and gradually build up to darker ones until you’re happy with the result.
Drawing Zakk Wylde
Zakk Wylde is the founder and lead guitarist of the Black Label Society. Drawing his portrait requires more advanced techniques, so it’s recommended for intermediate or advanced artists. Begin by sketching the basic shape of his head, which is roughly oval. Then, sketch the eyes, nose, and mouth using light pencil strokes. Make sure to pay attention to the proportions and position of each feature.
Adding Details
Once you have the basic shape, it’s time to add the details. Zakk Wylde is known for his signature long hair and beard, so make sure to add those as well. Next, draw the outline of his shirt, jacket, and guitar. Using a reference photo can be helpful, especially for the guitar.
Outlines
When you’re happy with your sketch, use a black pen or marker to outline the final design. Be careful not to use too much ink and keep the lines thin and smooth. You can also add shadow to the hair and beard to give the drawing more depth.
Shading
Finally, you can add shading to make the portrait more realistic. Use a charcoal pencil, colored pencil, or other materials you have on hand. Shade the hair and beard using a cross-hatching technique, where you start with light strokes and build up to darker ones. Use dark shading for the areas in shadow and light shading for the areas in light.
Summary
Creating a Black Label Society drawing can be an enjoyable challenge. Start by understanding basic shapes, sketching the logo or portrait, adding details, outlining, and shading. Remember to use light strokes and be patient with your drawing. Use reference photos if necessary, and most importantly, have fun!
FAQs
1. How long does it take to master drawing the Black Label Society logo?
It depends on your experience and skill level. For beginners, it can take a few tries to get it right. For more experienced artists, it may take just a few minutes.
2. What’s the best way to practice drawing the Black Label Society logo?
Start with basic shapes, practice adding details, and experiment with shading. Use reference photos or find inspiration online.
3. How important is shading in creating a Black Label Society drawing?
Shading can add depth and texture to your drawing, but it’s not necessary. It’s up to your preference and skill level.
4. Can I use different materials instead of a pen for outlining?
Yes, you can use a variety of materials, such as a fine-tip marker, pen, or even a paintbrush.
5. What’s the best way to improve my drawing skills?
Practice, practice, practice. Find online resources, watch videos, and join art communities to learn from other artists. Attend art classes or workshops for more advanced techniques and feedback.
6. Are there any other Black Label Society members I can draw?
Yes, there are other members of the band you can draw, such as bassist John DeServio or drummer Jeff Fabb. Research their appearance and find inspiration for your drawing.