Question

A sample is being collected for an RT-PCR swab test for COVID-19. The man collecting the sample is standing in a PPE (protective) suit. The lady who is being tested is sitting on a chair in front of him. She shows uneasiness through her facial expression when a swab is inserted in her nose.
Draw a free-hand sketch of the moment described above. Drawing of surroundings is not necessary.

Hint:

To make the expression of "uneasiness" more powerful, focus your detailed rendering on the lady's face. Use stronger lines and deeper shadows around her eyes and mouth to draw the viewer's attention to her emotional state. The rest of the scene can be rendered with slightly less detail.

Answer 1

This question assesses fundamental drawing and observation skills. The goal is to create a compelling narrative sketch that focuses on the interaction between two individuals in a specific, emotionally charged moment.
Step 1: Composition and Framing

The composition should focus tightly on the two figures to emphasize the personal and slightly invasive nature of the test.
A good approach is to use a medium shot, showing the figures from the waist or chest up.
The figure in the PPE suit could be slightly larger or more in the foreground, establishing them as the active person, while the seated lady is the subject of the action.
The angle of view could be slightly from the side to capture both the lady's facial expression and the action of the man's hand holding the swab.

Step 2: Observation, Scale, and Proportion

PPE Suit: Observe the details of a typical PPE suit. It is often bulky, with a hood, face shield or goggles, and a mask. The sketch should represent this bulkiness, which contrasts with a person in regular clothes.
Figures: The man is standing while the lady is sitting, so their relative heights and eye levels must be drawn correctly. The man will be leaning forward slightly. The lady might be recoiling or tensing up in her chair. Proportions of the head, torso, and limbs for both figures should be realistic.

Step 3: Capturing Expression

This is the most crucial part of the drawing. The lady's "uneasiness" can be conveyed through several visual cues:

Eyes: Squeezed shut or wide with apprehension.
Eyebrows: Furrowed.
Mouth: Tense, slightly open, or with downturned corners.
Head Position: Tilted slightly back, away from the swab.
Body Language: Tense shoulders, hands gripping the chair or each other.

The man in the PPE suit will have his expression hidden, so his focus and professionalism should be conveyed through his posture and the careful way he holds the swab.

Step 4: Use of Light and Shade (Shading)

Establish a light source (e.g., from a window to the side, or a ceiling light from above).
Use shading to give the figures volume and form. The plastic face shield of the PPE suit would have highlights. The folds in the fabric of the suit and the lady's clothes would have shadows.
Shading on the lady's face can be used to accentuate her tense facial muscles and expression of discomfort.
A successful sketch will integrate these elements to create a powerful and empathetic depiction of the described moment.