Anatomy and Perspective: The Fundamentals of Figure Drawing - Softcover

Charles Oliver

Softcover

ISBN 10: 0486435407 ISBN 13: 9780486435404

Publisher: Dover Publications, 2004

Synopsis

Artists of all skill levels can discover techniques to accurately capture structure and movement in the human form, from bones through muscles down to accessories like clothing and eyeglasses — items that virtually become part of the figure's anatomy when worn.

With a comprehensive look at the fundamentals of figure drawing, this book offers invaluable guidance on anatomy and perspective. Artists of classical Greece and the Renaissance were highly aware of the complexity and incredible beauty of the human figure, and strove in their artwork to depict the ideal form. Carefully addressing both topics, the text includes ways to convey the structure and functions of the human figure, covers the elementary principles of drawing basic shapes, and considers the use of light and shadow. The use of cubes, cylinders, and spheres is explored in aspects of measurements as representations of parts of the human body.

Readers are also guided through anatomical sketches of different bones and muscles within the trunk, upper and lower limbs, and head, plus accessories which can be used to enhance any figure drawing - from eyeglasses to clothing that appears part of the figure's anatomy! A comprehensive guide to the fundamentals of figure drawing, Anatomy and Perspective, will be an essential addition to the personal library of anyone interested in drawing the human figure.
 

• With the help of more than 90 illustrations, an experienced twentieth-century art teacher covers the two fundamentals of figure drawing that were equally important to masters of earlier eras — anatomy and perspective.
• Learn the elementary principles of drawing. Understand how to accurately represent human anatomy from head to toe with ease, from using basic forms like cubes, cylinders, and spheres to complex structures like the musculoskeletal system.
• Become a master at representing light and shadow! Understand what works best for creating a sense of depth in your drawings by mastering perspective techniques that will take your artistry to the next level.
• Explore the fundamentals of figure drawing with a focus on accessories such as eyeglasses, clothing items and more! See how these elements give life and texture to your drawings and make your drawings come alive.
• Beginners and advanced students can follow along step-by-step with this comprehensive art instruction book — it's like having a masterclass at your fingertips! Packed with visuals so you can gain maximum understanding on techniques like shading and blending for life-like results.

About this title

From the Back Cover

Artists of classical Greece and the Renaissance were highly aware of the complexity and great beauty of the human figure, and strove in their artwork to depict the ideal form. This book by an experienced twentieth-century art teacher covers two fundamentals of figure drawing that were equally important to masters of earlier eras—anatomy and perspective, subjects that seldom receive a thorough treatment within the same book. Carefully addressing both topics, the text suggests ways to convey the structure and functions of the human figure, covers elementary principles of drawing, and considers the use of light and shadow. Also discussed are aspects of measurement and the application of such simple forms as the cube, cylinder, and sphere in representing parts of the human body.
In describing the relationship between anatomical features and surface form, the chapters on anatomy include drawings of the bones and muscles of the trunk, upper and lower limbs, and the head and its prominent aspects. A final section focuses on accessories, such as eyeglasses and clothing—items which, when worn, virtually become part of the figure's anatomy.
Clearly and concisely written, Anatomy and Perspective will be an important addition to the personal library of anyone interested in drawing the human figure.
Unabridged Dover (2004) republication of the edition published by The Viking Press, New York, 1972.

Edition details

• Publisher: Dover Publications
• Publication date: 2004
• Language: English
• ISBN 10: 0486435407
• ISBN 13: 9780486435404
• Binding: Paperback
• Number of pages: 96