You Can Draw That? Mastering the Art of the Illinois State Flag (Even If You Can't Draw a Stick Figure)
Let's face it, Illinois isn't exactly known for its artistic flair. (Sorry, not sorry, deep dish enthusiasts, that casserole is delicious, but not exactly the Mona Lisa.) But fear not, fellow Illinoisans! There's one artistic feat we can all conquer: drawing our very own state flag.
How To Draw Illinois State Flag |
Basic Supplies: No Need to Raid the Louvre
This isn't brain surgery (although, if you are a brain surgeon reading this, high five for your amazing skills!). You don't need a fancy drafting compass or a vat of exotic paints. Here's your starter kit:
- A writing utensil: Pencil, pen, crayon, lipstick (hey, we're not judging your artistic choices...much)
- Paper: Printer paper, napkin (hey, we said we weren't judging!), the back of a grocery receipt (just make sure it's not for milk, you monster)
- Optional, but helpful: Ruler (for those who like to live life on the edge...of straight lines), eraser (for those inevitable "oops" moments)
Let's Get Doodling! (No Fancy Art School Required)
- Channel Your Inner Architect: Draw a rectangle. Don't worry about making it perfectly symmetrical. The Leaning Tower of Pisa is famous for a reason, folks (although that might be a better project for a different day).
- Behold! The Circle of Power: Now, plop a circle right in the center of your rectangle. This will be the base for our magnificent, state seal-shaped prize. Feeling fancy? Use a compass to make your circle extra impressive. Or, you can trace around a perfectly round cookie (just don't eat the evidence).
- Eagle Has Landed (Kind Of): On top of your circle, draw a simple eagle shape. Think along the lines of a child's drawing of a bird - a couple of triangles for wings, a circle for a head. No need for a master's degree in avian anatomy here.
- Seal Team Illinois: Inside the circle, sketch a basic shield with a diagonal line running across it. Feeling extra ambitious? Add a tiny sun peeking out from behind the shield, just like on the actual flag.
- Let Freedom Ring (or Scribble): Now comes the fun part - color it in! Blue for the background, white for the eagle and shield, and maybe a touch of yellow for that sunshine.
Pro Tip: If you're feeling fancy, you can add the state motto, "State Sovereignty, National Union," underneath the seal. But hey, we all know the real motto is "Deep Dish is the Best Dish," so write that in there if you like. We won't judge (wink wink).
QuickTip: Look for repeated words — they signal importance.
Uh Oh, My Masterpiece Looks More Like a Mess-terpiece!
Don't worry, even Picasso probably started somewhere. Here are some words of encouragement:
- Embrace the Imperfect: A wobbly line or a slightly lopsided eagle just adds character!
- Art is Subjective: Your neighbor might think it's a modern art masterpiece. You never know!
- Practice Makes Progress: The more you draw that eagle, the more majestic it will become. (Just don't wake up your neighbors practicing your eagle screeches at 3 am).
Frequently Asked Questions (Because We Know You Have Them)
How to make the eagle look more realistic?
Tip: Reread key phrases to strengthen memory.
Baby steps! Start with simple shapes and gradually add details as you get comfortable.
How to get the colors just right?
QuickTip: The more attention, the more retention.
Don't have the perfect shade of blue? Use your imagination! Purple-ish blue? Sure, why not? This is your artistic expression!
How long should it take to draw the flag?
QuickTip: Slowing down makes content clearer.
As long as it takes! Enjoy the process.
How to display my masterpiece?
Hang it on the fridge with pride! Or frame it and give it to a loved one (they'll love it...probably).
How to impress everyone with my artistic skills?
Casually mention you can draw the Illinois flag while nonchalantly flipping a pizza crust in the air (not recommended, but hey, it might work).