How to Draw a Gorilla
If you're wondering how to draw a gorilla, this lesson will guide you through creating a natural-looking primate in a relaxed pose. Drawing a gorilla can be simple, even if you're a beginner. All you need is a pencil and paper, and you can add color to enhance your artwork if you want.
My step-by-step approach makes learning how to draw a gorilla easy and accessible for everyone. We start with basic shapes and gradually add details, helping you build confidence as you go. By the end of this tutorial, you'll have a complete illustration that captures the presence of this animal.
This method focuses on understanding the main features of a gorilla, such as the face, hands, and body, without overwhelming you with complex steps. It’s a good way to develop your skills in drawing animals.
Estimated Time: 65 minutes
Level: Intermediate
Materials
- Pencil
- Paper
- Colored Pencils or Markers
Lesson: How to Draw a Gorilla
Let's get into it. I start by laying down basic outlines to map out the main shapes of the gorilla. Once the structure feels right, I add shading to give it some depth and dimension. Remember, even if I share my color choices, your artwork is your own, feel free to pick your own hues and make it unique. Grab your drawing tools, stay focused, and let's create something solid.
Outline the Face
First, outline the gorilla’s face as shown.
Add the Eyes
Draw a pair of circular eyes near the top of the face.
Draw the Nostrils
Draw two nostrils below the eyes.
Form the Mouth
Form the gorilla’s wide mouth.
Outline the Head
Draw the outline of the gorilla’s head around its face.
Attach the Ears
Attach curved ears on both sides of the head.
Draw the Forehead
Add a tall forehead above the face.
Outline the Back
Draw the gorilla’s back extending downward from the end of the forehead.
Form the Right Arm
Form the gorilla’s bulky right arm.
Draw the Right Leg
Draw the gorilla’s strong right leg extending from the back of its body.
Outline the Torso
Outline the gorilla’s torso behind its arm and leg.
Add the Left Arm
Draw the gorilla’s left arm attached to its torso.
Draw the Left Leg
Draw the left leg slightly visible behind the right arm.
Form the Hands
Form the gorilla’s clenched hands below its arms.
Add the Feet
Draw the feet attached to the bottom of the legs.
Draw Tall Grass
Add tall grass around the gorilla.
Outline the Bushes
Draw bushes by creating a bumpy outline behind the gorilla.
Color the Eyes and Nostrils
Color the gorilla’s eyes and nostrils with black. Next, add small off-white circular highlights to the eyes.
Shade the Face, Torso, Hands, and Feet
Use light gray to shade the gorilla’s face, ears, torso, hands, and feet.
Add Shading to the Body
Fill the rest of the gorilla’s body with a darker shade of gray. Then, color the forehead brown.
Color the Background
Color the grass light green, the bushes vibrant green, and the sky light blue.
Artist & Educator