The (Forgotten?) Art of Geological Field Sketches

Abstract

The use of geological field sketches to illustrate geological concepts dates back almost as far as geology itself. Indeed the illustrations of erupting volcanoes from Roman times could be considered as early examples of the genre. However in recent times the advent of the digital camera seems to have dealt a blow to the art, despite the many advantages that properly executed field sketches can provide. Why is a field sketch superior to a photograph? First and foremost it can highlight the geological aspects of an outcrop in a way that a photograph seldom can. Many significant surfaces do not stand out when viewed, despite their importance geologically. Secondly a sketch allows a viewpoint that may not be possible to achieve in actuality, such as a bird's eye view of an outcrop. The sketch can be drawn in a notebook and worked on until the illustrator is completely happy, proving the old adage that the geologist's most useful tool is his or her eraser. Finally, drawing the outcrop in a notebook allows geologists to add as many notes as they choose, which are then preserved in a location that is easy to find and access years down the line. How many times has one struggled to find an image or photo captured ten years ago, with the plethora of data that modern life (and computers) generate? This paper presents ten tips to improve the quality of any geologist's field sketches, ranging from the use of perspective, scale, and shading, to how to highlight geological features. In addition information will be provided on how to go about drawing the more familiar objects encountered in the field: rocks, mountains, skies and clouds, trees, water and animals. There is no substitute for practice, and getting out into the field and honing your skills, but applying the techniques described herein will certainly improve your geological renditions.

AAPG Datapages/Search and Discovery Article #90259 ©2016 AAPG Annual Convention and Exhibition, Calgary, Alberta, Canada, June 19-22, 2016