[Metrini]

Hi all.

I have one major problem when it comes to drawing and painting the face and that's the shadows. I believe that extends from my lack of knowledge of the planes of the face and how the work with the light source etc. Most books and teachers have not covered the planes of the face/body sadly.

Anyone know of some resources or books etc that would help me better gasp show to shadow a face according to the light source please? Any help would be greatly appreciated.

Thanks in advance,
Metrini

[xheadinthecloudx]

Advice that's cheaper than buying a book

Go to a halloween store and buy a cheap plastic skull (but real/big enough to use for reference), or find a store mannequin that's been thrown out in a dumpster (all good art students/artists/etc dumpster dive at least once or twice)... you might also be able to find one at a beauty supply store or an art store, but they'll probably be expensive. Grab one of those lamps that clip onto a desk on one end, and twist into odd angles.

Tada! Instant reference material in any nearly any angle/lighting conditions you need (you might just need to get creative with piles of books.

Also, my figure drawing and illustration professors told us to squint (this increases the contrast, apparently), and look critically. In the case of painting, paint shapes and forms, not lines (I believe that's a Sargent line, also).

I've gone through some books, and except for a few lines of genius here & there, I don't think there's one that really gives a 'trick' to painting facial shadows, as your head is a pretty complex object.
_________________
They don't know who they're f***ing with... they're f***ing with a lean, mean, tattooed, rated-g boy scout.
-Henry Rollins

[dzou]

grabd the loomis books, you will find chapter on it figure or head
but also practice, i'm doing this chapter now and it requires patience.
Lommis say that's it's a major jump and many student can't pass it SO don't hesitate, practice, begin by simple things, then continue

good luck