The human head is a complex structure, but it can be simplified into a few basic shapes. The framing of the head is the most important of these shapes, as it defines the overall shape of the head and the placement of the features. Drawing the framing of the head correctly is essential for creating a realistic and believable portrait.
To begin, draw a circle for the top of the head. This circle should be slightly wider than it is tall. Next, draw two lines that extend down from the circle to form the sides of the head. These lines should be slightly curved, and they should taper slightly as they go down. Finally, draw a line across the bottom of the head to form the jawline. The jawline should be slightly curved, and it should be slightly narrower than the circle at the top of the head.
Once you have drawn the basic framing of the head, you can begin to add the features. The eyes should be placed about halfway down the head, and they should be slightly wider than they are tall. The nose should be placed below the eyes, and it should be about the same width as the eyes. The mouth should be placed below the nose, and it should be slightly wider than the nose.
Establishing the Skull’s Proportions
Understanding the skull’s fundamental proportions is crucial for framing a head. Begin by visualizing the skull as a three-dimensional ovoid shape, wider at the bottom and tapering towards the top. These dimensions dictate the overall proportions of the head.
A Closer Look at Proportions
To establish accurate proportions, use the following guidelines:
| Dimension | Measurement |
|---|---|
| Width | Approximately 2/3 of the height |
| Height | From the chin to the top of the skull |
| Eyeline | Slightly below the midpoint of the head |
| Nose | Approximately 1/3 of the distance from the eyeline to the chin |
| Mouth | Approximately 1/4 of the distance from the nose to the chin |
Remember, these proportions are approximate and can vary slightly depending on the individual. The goal is to establish a balanced and visually pleasing framework for the facial features.
Drawing the Frontalis Bone
To draw the frontalis bone, start by drawing a horizontal line at the top of the head. This line represents the top of the forehead. Then, draw two vertical lines that extend down from the horizontal line. These lines represent the sides of the forehead. Next, draw a curved line that connects the two vertical lines. This line represents the bottom of the forehead.
Once you have drawn the outline of the forehead, you can start to add details. Draw two small circles at the top of the forehead. These circles represent the eyebrows. Then, draw a nose on the front of the forehead. The nose should be slightly curved and should have two nostrils. Finally, draw a mouth on the bottom of the forehead. The mouth should be slightly curved and should have two lips.
Here is a table summarizing the steps for drawing the frontalis bone:
| Step | Description |
|---|---|
| 1 | Draw a horizontal line at the top of the head. |
| 2 | Draw two vertical lines that extend down from the horizontal line. |
| 3 | Draw a curved line that connects the two vertical lines. |
| 4 | Draw two small circles at the top of the forehead. |
| 5 | Draw a nose on the front of the forehead. |
| 6 | Draw a mouth on the bottom of the forehead. |
Defining the Orbits and Nasal Cavity
Understanding the structure of the orbits and nasal cavity is crucial for accurately depicting the framing of a head. The orbits, located on either side of the nose, house the eyes and are defined by four bones:
Orbits
| Bone | Description |
|---|---|
| Frontal bone | Forms the upper and medial border of the orbit |
| Zygomatic bone | Forms the lateral and lower border of the orbit |
| Maxilla | Forms the floor of the orbit |
| Ethmoid bone | Forms a small part of the medial wall of the orbit |
The nasal cavity, located below the orbits, is a cavity that is surrounded by the nasal bones, maxilla, ethmoid bone, and vomer bone. It is divided into two equal halves by the nasal septum, which is composed of the vomer bone and the perpendicular plate of the ethmoid bone.
These structures create the framework that supports and defines the shape of the head, providing a solid foundation for the placement of facial features.
Sketching the Mandible
The mandible, also known as the lower jaw, forms the lower part of the facial frame. To draw it, start by sketching a curved line for the bottom edge, which is slightly convex in the center. Next, draw two shorter, upward-sloping lines for the sides, creating a U-shape. These lines should be slightly concave on the outer edges to indicate the slight bulge of the jaw muscles. Connect the top points of the U-shape with a horizontal line, forming the top edge of the mandible. Finally, sketch the chin by drawing a small, V-shaped line at the center of the bottom edge.
Sketching the Maxilla
The maxilla, also known as the upper jaw, forms the upper part of the facial frame. To draw it, start by sketching a curved line for the bottom edge, which is slightly concave in the center. Next, draw two shorter, downward-sloping lines for the sides, creating a U-shape. These lines should be slightly convex on the outer edges to indicate the slight bulge of the cheekbones. Connect the top points of the U-shape with a horizontal line, forming the top edge of the maxilla. Finally, sketch the nose bridge by drawing a vertical line at the center of the top edge, extending it slightly beyond the top of the maxilla.
| Facial Feature | Description |
|---|---|
| Mandible | Lower jaw, bottom part of the facial frame |
| Maxilla | Upper jaw, upper part of the facial frame |
| Chin | V-shaped line at the center of the mandible’s bottom edge |
| Nose Bridge | Vertical line at the center of the maxilla’s top edge |
Adding Details to the Temporal Region
Focus on the area above the ear, known as the temporal region. This is where the temporal bone is located, and it’s an important area for adding details:
-
Temporal Line:
This is a slight ridge that runs parallel to the brow ridge, creating a divide between the forehead and temple. Draw a subtle line to indicate it.
-
Temporal Crest:
The temporal crest is located just above the ear and is the superior border of the temporal bone. Define it with a line that follows the curve of the skull.
-
Temporal Fossa:
This is a large area below the temporal line and crest. It can be shaded or textured to add depth.
-
Zygomatic Arch:
The zygomatic arch is a bony structure that extends from the cheekbone to the temporal bone. Draw a line that follows the arch to create the cheekbone and define the shape of the face.
-
Masseter Muscle:
This muscle is located beneath the zygomatic arch and is responsible for chewing. Indicate its presence by adding a subtle bulge or shading.
-
Temporal Muscle:
The temporal muscle is located behind the temporal bone and is also involved in chewing. Draw a gentle bulge to indicate its position.
Connecting the Skull Elements
The skull of a human is a complicated arrangement of bones that protects the brain. When drawing the head, it is critical to understand the skull’s structure to draw it accurately. The shapes of the skull’s various elements are simplified in the basic framework, but it is still essential to grasp how they connect to one another.
The skull can be divided into two main parts: the cranium and the facial bones. The cranium is the upper part of the skull, which houses the brain. The facial bones include the jawbone, the cheekbones, and the nose bones.
The bones of the cranium are connected by sutures, which are immovable joints. The facial bones are connected to the cranium by cartilages and ligaments.
Sutures of the Cranium
| Suture | Location |
|---|---|
| Coronal | Between the frontal bone and the parietal bones |
| Sagittal | Between the parietal bones |
| Lambdoid | Between the parietal bones and the occipital bone |
| Squamosal | Between the temporal bone and the parietal bone |
| Mastoide | Between the temporal bone and the occipital bone |
| Petrous | Between the temporal bone and the sphenoid bone |
| Sphenofrontal | Between the sphenoid bone and the frontal bone |
Utilizing the Framework for Facial Features
The framework of a head provides a solid foundation for accurately placing and proportioning facial features. When drawing a head, it is important to use the framework as a guide to ensure that the features are in the correct location and scale.
The Eyes
The eyes are typically placed on the horizontal line that divides the head into thirds. The distance between the eyes should be equal to the width of one eye.
The Nose
The nose is usually placed on the vertical line that divides the head into thirds. The bottom of the nose should align with the bottom of the eyes.
The Mouth
The mouth is typically placed on the bottom third of the head. The width of the mouth should be slightly less than the width of the eyes.
The Ears
The ears are typically placed on either side of the head, aligned with the top and bottom of the eyes.
The Hairline
The hairline can vary greatly depending on the style of hair. However, it is generally placed at or near the top of the head.
The Chin
The chin is typically located at the bottom of the framework. It should be in proportion to the rest of the face.
The Neck
The neck connects the head to the body. It should be in proportion to the head and should be consistent with the perspective of the drawing.
The Facial Muscles
The facial muscles are responsible for the expressions of the face. They should be drawn in a way that accurately conveys the desired emotion.
How to Draw the Framing of a Head
Framing is a crucial aspect of figure drawing that helps establish the overall shape and proportion of the head. Here’s a step-by-step process to help you draw the framing of a head:
- Establish the Line of Symmetry: Draw a vertical line down the center of your paper. This will serve as the line of symmetry for the head.
- Sketch the Oval Shape: Sketch a loose oval that represents the overall shape of the head. Make sure it is slightly taller than it is wide.
- Define the Chin: Draw a small, curved line at the bottom of the oval to indicate the chin.
- Draw the Forehead: Sketch a curved line across the top of the oval to form the forehead. The forehead should be slightly wider than the chin.
- Outline the Cheekbones: Draw two curved lines on either side of the oval to outline the cheekbones. The cheekbones should be positioned approximately halfway between the forehead and the chin.
- Add the Jawline: Draw a curved line from the chin to the base of the ear on both sides of the head. This line defines the jawline.
- Refine the Shape: Use gentle, curved lines to refine the shape of the head. Pay attention to subtle variations in curves.
- Draw the Ears: Sketch two ovals or bean shapes on either side of the head to indicate the ears.
Remember, practicing regularly and observing live models can greatly improve your ability to draw the framing of a head.
People Also Ask About How to Draw the Framing of a Head
What is the importance of framing in head drawing?
Framing is essential for establishing the overall shape and proportion of the head. It helps you determine the placement of facial features and gives your drawing a sense of depth and dimension.
How can I improve my accuracy when framing a head?
Use a ruler or straight edge to establish the line of symmetry and other key proportions. Practice drawing different head shapes and angles to develop your observational skills.
What are some common mistakes to avoid when framing a head?
Avoid drawing the head too large or small in relation to the body. Don’t make the forehead or chin too pointed or the cheekbones too angular. Be mindful of the curvature and subtle variations of the head’s shape.
