I. Introduction
For many artists, drawing a head can be a daunting task. It’s an essential skill, though, as portraits often form the backbone of all kinds of art. Whether for a sketchbook or a portrait commission, drawing realistic and proportionate heads that capture the unique features of their subject requires a combination of skill and practice. In this article, we’ll take you through some easy steps to help you master the art of drawing heads.
II. Step-by-step tutorial
Breaking down the drawing process into simple steps is key to achieving a realistic and proportionate head. Here are the steps:
Step 1: Draw a circle
Begin by drawing a circle for the skull. This will be the basis of the head’s entire structure. Keep in mind that this circle can be modified to correspond to the subject’s face shape, so don’t worry if it doesn’t look perfect.
Step 2: Place horizontal lines
Draw a horizontal line in the middle of the circle. This line is crucial for shaping and positioning the eyes, ears, and nose correctly. Then, draw a vertical line down the middle of the face. This line will help you maintain symmetry in the face.
Step 3: Add facial features
After placing the horizontal and vertical lines, you can begin to add the facial features. Draw features like the eyes, nose, and mouth. Remember, the placement of the facial features should be proportional to the size of the skull.
Step 4: Add hair and neck
After the facial features are in place, you can add details like hair and neck. Be sure to adjust these details based on the width of the facial features and the subject’s head shape.
While following these steps, remember these tips and tricks:
- Use light lines for the initial sketch so you can erase easily.
- Begin with basic shapes and then progressively refine them.
- Pay attention to foreshortening, the concept of objects appearing shorter or distorted due to their spatial orientation.
- Adjust and modify your lines as you go.
III. Anatomy and proportion
Understanding the underlying anatomy and proportion of the head can make the drawing process a lot easier. Here are some essential aspects to consider:
Skull
The skull is the supporting structure of the head and dictates the head’s overall shape. Understanding basic skull anatomy can help you accurately draw the subject’s face. Pay attention to the skull’s shape, size, and landmarks.
Facial muscles
The facial muscles determine facial expressions. It’s important to study the structure and function of the facial muscles to create accurate facial expressions in your drawings.
Proportions
The key to drawing a realistic head is to create the correct balance between the different facial features. Paying attention to the proportions of the eyes, nose & mouth can help you achieve a realistic rendering. Ensure the eyes are leveled and spaced evenly, and the nose and mouth are aligned with the nostrils and chin.
IV. Materials and tools
When it comes to drawing heads, employing the right materials and tools can make the entire process more manageable. Here’s what you’ll need:
Paper
The best paper for drawing heads is a heavyweight paper with some tooth that can handle eraser marks and blending. Use paper with a smooth surface to create a clean and refined look or textured paper to add depth and roughness.
Pencils
Choose graphite pencils with a range of softness/hardness. This will help you create subtle shading. Use harder lead for lighter lines and softer lead for bolder lines and shading.
Other tools
Other tools that could come in handy include charcoal, kneaded erasers, and a sharpener. Charcoal is perfect for bold and dramatic drawings, while a kneaded eraser is soft and pliable making it great for precise erasing.
V. Drawing from life
Observing and drawing from live models can be incredibly beneficial when it comes to building your skills. Here’s how you can go about it:
Find a model
Ask a friend or a family member to pose for you, or you can join a life drawing session, where models pose for artists. Life drawing events could be found on social media platforms or art organizations.
Setup your workspace
Have good lighting and set up a comfortable workspace to draw from life. Determine your vantage point and distance from the subject that works best for your artistic style.
Work quickly
Quick studies help you capture the essential features of the subject. The idea is to avoid getting bogged down in details, so keep your hand moving. Start with a light sketch and quickly fill in the important features before refining the details.
VI. Common mistakes
Understanding common mistakes when drawing heads is key to improving your skillset. Here are some common mistakes and how you can avoid them:
Shrimp eyes
Be careful not to make your subject’s eyes too small. This mistake is commonly known as putting “shrimp eyes” on the face. Ensure your eyes are proportional to the face and placing them appropriately relative to the nose and mouth.
Incorrect shading
When shading, pay attention to the direction of light. Consistent shading is significant to maintaining form, so be mindful of the light source. Use shading to add value and depth to your drawing.
Incorrect proportions
Pay attention to the proportions of the different facial features to ensure that your drawing looks as realistic as possible. Always double-check measurements to achieve the proper symmetry.
VII. Conclusion
The art of drawing heads may seem intimidating, but with the right steps, materials, and tools, it doesn’t have to be. Professional artists and beginners alike can benefit from a step-by-step tutorial in drawing heads to improve their skills. Remember to practice, follow the steps, and you’ll be on the right track to becoming an accomplished artist.
If you’re looking to continue learning, there are tons of online resources such as YouTube tutorials and online courses to help you improve your skills.
