Drawing People for Beginners:: Classical Method of the Head and Face by Patrick J Vansciver

Welcome to the journey of discovering the art and soul behind drawing faces. In this book, We embark on a path transcending mere instruction. It explores the essence of capturing human emotion, expression, and connection through the tip of a pencil. As an artist and a painter, I’ve always been fascinated by the power of a face to tell a story, evoke a memory, or convey emotions that words often fail to express. A high school art teacher from the 1970s once told me, “Draw what you see, not what you think you have.” the human figure is not a stick figure. When someone passed away, I was asked to paint their favorite photograph without charge. This allowed me to use great master’s techniques. You could imagine how much I would love to paint as good as the Great Masters, but I’m also still learning. It’s important to start with the basics so you can paint or draw anything you see or think of. I aim to share this fascination with you through these pages.
Drawing faces might seem daunting at first. The complexity of expressions, the subtleties of proportion, and the play of light and shadow can overwhelm beginners. However, this book is designed to demystify the process, breaking down each element into manageable segments using the classical methods of the great masters, from understanding the anatomical structure of the face in Chapter 1 to mastering the art of shading and texturing in Chapter 5. Each chapter builds upon the last, ensuring that by the end of this book, you will have a solid foundation in drawing faces and a deep appreciation for the artistry involved. We begin by exploring the anatomy of expression, where the importance of facial expressions in art is unveiled. Then, in Chapter 2, we delve into the tools of the trade, providing you with the knowledge to select suitable materials and create an inspiring workspace. As we master proportions and the art of expression in subsequent chapters, you will learn the ‘how’ and the ‘why’ behind each technique. The journey doesn’t stop with mastering technical skills; in the later chapters, we explore the final touches that bring a portrait to life, and finally, we reflect on the transition from drawing to artistry, encouraging you to find your unique style and voice.