My name is Michael Geldorp. I am 32 years old, and I live in a small town in the Netherlands. I have liked astronomy since I was 8 years old. I own a telescope, and I try to go out under the stars when it is clear at night. Instead of just looking at a planet or a nebula and forgetting it later, I always draw what I see.
The location and flag of the Netherlands
After drawing for a few minutes, you will see much more than you thought at first. Drawing really makes you appreciate the beauty of the night sky.
Drawing looks hard, but it’s really easy. You don’t need to be an artist to do it; it just takes a little practice. Remember, your drawing doesn’t have to be pretty. Just make the sketch look as much like the real object as you can.
On the next page, I’ll try to explain how I draw what I see. I hope these tips will help you with your drawings.
Netherlands map from Perry-Castaneda Library Map Collection, University of Texas
Netherlands flag image copyright Antonio Martins. Courtesy of FOTW Flags of the World.