Life Drawing

A good site for understanding basic shapes and structure of the body in action:

http://elfwood.lysator.liu.se/farp/figure/williamlibodyconstruction.html

Simplifying the bodyThe evolution of the stick man…

Weight & BalanceConsider the centre of gravity and balance of the body.

Consider how the weight of the body is distributed.

VolumeOnce you have the basic proportions mapped out, start to fill in the main forms of the body.

AnatomyTo improve your life drawing, it is important to study the anatomy of the figure. This will help you understanding the skeletal and muscular construction of the body.

In your sketchbook, you should have a couple of pages of anatomical studies.

Light & ShadowTo give your life drawing depth, you need to record the different tones created the available light. Be aware of the variety of mid-tones, not only the light and dark areas.

Ink StudiesDue to the immediacy of ink, it can help you to make more gestural marks and, hence, free you from focusing purely on the details. You can also build up an ink study in layers.

Marlene Dumas, the New York-based artist, is well known for her fluid ink portraits. Have a go at washing your background with water and drawing or painting over the top.

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