Subtractive drawing

Subtractive drawing is a technique in which the drawing surface is covered with graphite or charcoal marks and then erased to make the image.^[1] This technique is often used to add texture, establish tonal shapes, or create the appearance of reflected light in a drawing.^[2][3] Artists commonly use a kneaded or putty eraser for this type of drawing, due to its ability to absorb pigment and be manipulated into custom shapes, including fine tips.^[1][2][4] Charcoal figure drawing commonly uses a combination of subtractive and additive drawing techniques.^[3]

A charcoal portrait of Ethel Grenfell by John Singer Sargent, drawn with a combination of subtractive and additive techniques.