Archive of Fine Arts

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Minimal head rotation reference

The minimal head is useful for studying a face with fewer sharp internal edges. Begin with the outside shape and the placement of the brow, nose and chin. Compare the curve of the cheek with the straighter turn into the jaw. In the tonal plates, broad value changes help locate the side plane even where the line drawing leaves it open. Add features after those larger relationships are settled.

Line studies through the turn

Front, three-quarter and profile in tone

Head rotation reference, Minimal head, 0 degrees front view, tonal drawing
0° · Tonal drawing
Head rotation reference, Minimal head, 45 degrees three-quarter view, tonal drawing
45° · Tonal drawing
Head rotation reference, Minimal head, 90 degrees profile, tonal drawing
90° · Tonal drawing

Keep drawing

Try the free tonal sampler, or see the line and tonal studies in Head rotation volume 1.