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In this lesson, we'll explore an alternative way of thinking about gesture drawing. Instead of focusing solely on the flowy lines of gesture, we'll emphasize shape and part, and then apply gesture and perspective to these simplified forms. This approach allows you to customize parts of the figure, giving them subtle indications of behavior or perspective.
We'll practice this method using reference images, comparing it to the traditional approach, and see how it affects our understanding and execution of gesture drawing.
Applying Shape and Part to Gesture Drawing
Starting with the Head
Begin with the shape of the head. If the chin is symmetrical and there's a tilt, capture that in your shape. For example, draw an oval or box to represent the head's basic form. This shape sets the foundation for adding gesture and perspective.
Adding the Neck
Think of the neck as a part that connects to the head. Visualize it as a pillar shape that can be tilted, stretched, or pinched based on the pose. Use overlaps to show that the neck sits behind the head, creating depth through the use of T-junctions.
Constructing the Torso
The torso is another part that you can simplify into an envelope shape with a centerline and outer edges. Observe the tilt, pinch, and stretch in the shoulders and pelvis. Adjust the shape to reflect these qualities, giving it the desired gesture.
Incorporate perspective by dipping the shape forward or backward. Use wrapping lines to indicate the torso's orientation in space.
Attaching the Legs
Determine where the legs connect to the pelvis. Use shapes like S-curves or C-curves to represent the legs, depending on whether they're in profile or a three-quarter view. Consider the gesture of each leg and how it contributes to the overall pose.
Be mindful of proportions when working part by part. Double-check the length and placement of the legs relative to the torso.
Drawing the Arms
Attach the arms to the torso, considering their gesture and perspective. For bent arms, think of them as arrows or triangles. Use C-curves or S-curves to design the upper and lower arms.
Simplify the hands into basic shapes, like gloves or mittens, to keep the focus on the gesture rather than detailed anatomy.
Refining with Overlaps and Perspective
Use overlaps to show which parts are in front of others, enhancing the sense of depth. Apply wrapping lines to convey the volume and form of each part, reinforcing the perspective.
You can start adding interior details, like muscles or contours, to develop the figure further. Remember to keep your lines light and flexible, allowing for adjustments as you refine the drawing.
Tips for Using this Approach
- Overlaps are essential: They help show depth and the correct stacking of parts.
- Wrapping lines convey form: Use them to indicate the volume and perspective of each part.
- Proportions can be tricky: Double-check relationships between parts to maintain accurate proportions.
- Keep lines flexible: Light, loose lines allow for adjustments and repositioning.
- Experiment with body types: Practice drawing different characters or body types using the same pose to challenge yourself.
- Use both approaches: Don't limit yourself to one method. Incorporate both the traditional gesture approach and this alternative to enhance your skills.
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This alternative approach to gesture drawing focuses on simplifying the figure into parts and shapes, then applying gesture and perspective. It offers a different way to think about constructing figures and can lead to a quicker understanding of form and movement.
Try this method in your practice sessions. See how it complements your traditional gesture drawing and how it can help you achieve a different sensibility in your work.
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