Drawing Skulls
Using Value to Create a 3D Human Skull Drawing
Objectives:
I Can:
- Combine simple shapes to create a skull
- Learn about geometric planes in a form
- Use my knowledge of value and shading to draw a realistic skull from at least 3 different angles
SPIs: Media, Technique and Process
1.1.1, 1.1.2, 1.1.3
Skulls as Subject Matter
Famous artists and art students alike find the skull a fascinating subject matter. Skulls show the architecture of the structures beneath the skin. One reason to focus on learning to draw the human skull is because if you ever want to be good at portraits you must first understand how the bone structure that supports the face looks. Drawing skulls from multiple viewpoints, like three quarters view, straight on, profile, back, from below, etc. will increase your skills in portraiture. This process of careful observation of the skull will greatly improve your understanding of the human head. Not to mention, drawing skulls is just fun.
Look For The Different Planes On The Skull
Learning to identify all the different planes on the skull will help you with shading and following the contours of the form. Take a moment and with your group discuss all the different subtle changes in the planes on the skull at your table.
Origami Skull
Video Tutorial
Draw a Skull - Halloween Special
https://youtu.be/KVCtfnweHQY
Assignment:
We will be using our iPads to photograph the skull at our table. You will need at least 3 different views of the skull, one should be a front view and the only ones you can't do are from the back or underneath. You can adjust the contrast in your photos to create more shadows and highlights before you start your drawings.
You will also create a time-lapse video of the drawing of at least one of your skulls. This is a way to review your own process and also see the process of others
Must haves:
- 3 well drawn skulls in different viewpoints
- Shading that captures the value on the form (highlights, shadows and midtowns)
- Shade with the contours and cross contours to create a 3D effect
- Attention to detail and craftsmanship
****These will be used in another composition for a final piece. This is just the beginning of our fun with skulls******