Harriet Tubman was an American abolitionist and political activist who escaped from slavery and subsequently made numerous missions to rescue enslaved people using the Underground Railroad. She is an iconic figure in American history and drawing her can be a meaningful way to honor her legacy. In this article, we will guide you through the process of how to draw Harriet Tubman step by step.
Materials Required
Before we begin, gather the following materials:
- Drawing paper or sketchbook
- Pencil (HB or 2B recommended)
- Eraser
- Fine-tip black marker or pen
- Colored pencils or markers (optional)
Now that you have all the materials ready, let’s delve into the step-by-step process of drawing Harriet Tubman.
Step 1: Basic Face Shape
Start by drawing a large oval shape for the head. This will be the framework for Harriet Tubman’s face. Place the oval towards the upper portion of the paper, leaving enough space below for the rest of the body.
Step 2: Facial Features
Within the oval shape, sketch in two horizontal lines intersecting at the middle. These lines will serve as guides for the facial features. Draw two almond-shaped eyes along the horizontal line, slightly tilted inward. Add small circles within the eyes to indicate the pupils.
Below the eyes, draw a small, straight line for the nose and a curved line for the mouth, slightly turned upward to represent a smile. Remember that Harriet Tubman’s features should be realistic but also emphasize her strength and determination.
Step 3: Hair and Headband
Moving on to the hair, start sketching short, wavy lines around the upper part of the head. Harriet Tubman was often depicted wearing a headwrap or headband, so draw a wider, horizontal band across the forehead.
Step 4: Upper Body and Clothing
Extend two slightly diagonal lines downwards from the sides of the oval shape to create the upper body. Harriet Tubman was known for her distinctive clothing, typically wearing a plain, high-collared dress. Depict this by drawing a rounded neckline and a vertical line down the center of the upper body.
Step 5: Arms and Hands
On either side of the upper body, draw two curved lines to represent the arms. Add basic shapes for the hands, keeping in mind that Harriet Tubman was often depicted with her hands clasped together or carrying a lantern or walking stick, symbolizing her role as a guide and leader.
Step 6: Lower Body and Skirt
Extend two vertical lines downwards from the bottom of the upper body to create the lower body. Draw a slightly flared skirt by connecting the lines at the bottom with a curve. Remember to add some folds and creases to make the clothing appear more natural.
Step 7: Finalizing the Face
Now that the basic framework is complete, you can refine the details of Harriet Tubman’s face. Use your pencil to darken the lines and add more definition to the eyes, eyebrows, and other facial features. Pay close attention to capturing her determined expression and the strength in her eyes.
Step 8: Outlining
Once you are satisfied with the overall sketch, go over the lines with a fine-tip black marker or pen. This will help make the drawing more bold and defined. Be careful not to rush and take your time to ensure clean and precise lines.
Step 9: Adding Color (Optional)
If you wish to add color to your drawing, use colored pencils or markers to bring Harriet Tubman to life. You can reference historical photographs or paintings to guide your color choices. Keep in mind that she was often depicted wearing neutral colors, such as browns and grays, as well as earthy tones.
Experiment with shading techniques to add depth and dimension to the drawing. Highlight certain areas to bring attention to the focal points, such as the eyes and face.
Conclusion
Drawing Harriet Tubman is a powerful way to pay tribute to her bravery and significant contributions to the fight against slavery. By following these step-by-step instructions, you can create a stunning portrait that captures her spirit and resilience. Remember to take your time and enjoy the process of bringing her image to life on paper.
We hope this guide has been helpful in your artistic journey. Now go grab your materials and start drawing Harriet Tubman with confidence!
