Dan Roam advocates learning to draw anything using just five basic shapes. Let’s begin:

Drawing Basic Shapes:

• Square: Start with a simple square.
• Circle: Follow with a circle.
• Triangle: Then a triangle.
• Line: Add a straight line.
• Blob: Finish with a sketch of a blob.

These shapes are foundational.

Applying Shapes for Complex Objects:

• Bicycle: Create using two circles (wheels), a triangle (frame), lines (handle, pedals), and small circles (gears).
• Cityscape: Use multiple squares for buildings.
• House: Draw a large square for the base, smaller squares for windows, and a triangle for the roof.

Drawing People:

• Stick Figures: Simplify human figures into basic components. A third of the size for the head, a third the length for the body, add limbs, and play with expressions for different emotions.

Illustrating Processes and Ideas:

• Process Diagram: Use squares and arrows for process steps, labeling each and detailing progression.
• Illustrating Innovation: Illustrate transformation by evolving a square into a circle, depicting innovation.

Using Metaphors in Drawings:

• Transformation Metaphor: Show a caterpillar on a branch, transforming into a pupa, then a butterfly to symbolize change and innovation.

Conclusion:

• Emphasize that drawing isn’t just about perfection but about clearly and engagingly expressing ideas. Use these techniques to create complex visuals and convey meaningful stories. Keep practicing, focusing on basic shapes and building complexity. This guide teaches using simple shapes to craft detailed visuals and effectively communicate ideas.