This online course will investigate the structure of the three-dimensional human head as it is rendered onto the two-dimensional plane as in a drawing.

 

Through repeated exercises and practice you will find yourself getting comfortable with the proportions of the main dimensions as well as the individual features of the head and their relationships to each other. Then you will look at how these elements change as the head begins to rotate around an axis from the face on to a profile view.

 

We will start with some simple models of the head and then move on through practice using the Reilly method and the Loomis method as useful frameworks or models to use as a sound basis for the development of individual character.

 

Course requirements:

Reliable desktop computer/ smartphone/ laptop

Internet connection/wireless

Webcam/Microphone

Zoom account (can use the free version)

Materials:

A3 sketchbook or A2 paper

Graphite pencils 2B and 4B

Compressed charcoal pencil

Drawing board
Bulldog clips if using single sheets of paper

An easel or table easel to prop up your board

 

Session 1 Course introduction and setting up your easel/tabletop for drawing practice. Tutor demonstration of drawing the Reilly Head front view in stages with each stage followed by student practice.

Session 2 Reilly Head side view. The tutor will demonstrate the side view and again the students will follow stage by stage.

Session 3 The tutor will demonstrate the Loomis Head front view followed by practice, then side views and 3/4 views followed by practice.

Session 4 Proportions and Perspective. The tutor will demonstrate the head in a box, looking at the perspective of the head and changing proportions as it rotates, followed by student practice.

Session 5 Planes of the Head. The tutor will introduce simplified planes and more complex planes of the head with demonstration and practice.

Session 6 Reilly Method three-quarter view with demonstration and practice.