The text discusses the essential qualities and practices needed to succeed in the art of drawing. Emphasizing natural talent and dedication, it highlights the importance of these elements over mere effort, explaining how mediocre painters often fail due to their lack of innate skill or commitment. Predispositions and recognition of innate talent are crucial for achieving mastery in art.
DRAWING.
Just as the masterpieces of ancient Greek Sculptors, it is what remains most complete and best preserved among the Antiques: proportions will be given hereafter.
CHAPTER THREE.
On the Study of Drawing.
The art of drawing can only be learned through extensive practice and dedication; but before teaching the principles, it is fitting to discuss the dispositions one must bring to this study. Without the fortunate natural talent that makes the study easier, it is vain to apply oneself to it, and despite dedicating much time to it, one might regret not reaping any benefits from forced labor. It is often seen that mediocre painters fail in this most crucial part of their Art, either from a lack of predispositions, neglecting thorough learning, or embracing this profession by accident or parental choice, rather than from their own innate talent. Thus, to succeed in the Art of Drawing, one must be born a draftsman: let us now endeavor to indicate the signs by which one can recognize those who possess this quality so necessary to reach perfection in their Art.
The Necessary Dispositions for Drawing.
It is known if a young man has some natural inclination...
Translation Notes:
Just as: This phrase suggests the comparison drawn between ancient artworks and modern tasks of preservation. The original text implies a reverence for classical methods.
Dispositions: Refers to both the physical and mental attributes or talents thought necessary for artistic skill.
Natural Talent: An understanding of intrinsic ability, often considered essential for mastery in art.