Class 2. Human Skeletal Structure

Understanding this structure is the major key to seeing the model and each pose accurately; and to the ability to construct a representation of this complex subject that is also convincing on the page. Seeing the underlying structure helps to simplify complexities. If possible, use a life-size skeleton. Science departments usually have them. Next best is a smaller model; next, large skeleton charts. Explain and demonstrate the range of motion of all joints, everyone making the same movement with their bodies. Feel the different movement of ball-and-socket and hinge---and also a radial joint (lower arm).

ALL DEMONSTRATIONS: These often are necessary. Always make them brief and sketchy---just enough to explain an approach, important points to consider and a way to get started.  Never extended or complete; you don't want them to think you're showing them how to draw like you do. You want them to draw like they do.

DEMONSTRATE: To clarify today's process, LIGHTLY SKETCH approximate line for the SPINAL COLUMN, and shapes of the PELVIS, SKULL and RIB CAGE. After loose sketching, adjust these for relative size and position. Find where UPPER ARM BONES and FEMURS insert in the pelvis and at the shoulder. Sketch center lines for upper limbs first, establishing their LENGTH and POSITION. Then make lines that sketch the center lines for the lower arms and legs, hands and feet. Explain that center lines/axes support the outer form. Around these axis lines draw the general shapes of the major bones with particular attention to the ends which form the joints that are visible as bumps on the body. Try to find master drawings where the sketched axis lines can be seen, and where the search for form is evident in corrections and multiple tries.

This approach works because it's easier to get a body part the right relative LENGTH and in the right POSITION by finding a center AXIS, than it is by describing the contour or outer form. The mass is stretched along and wrapped around each axis/bone. Point out in your demo common mistakes: the size of the SKULL front to back and the shape of the separate JAW bone; the place where the femurs insert in the pelvis (SIDE, NOT BOTTOM); the large size of the KNEE joint; how far the HEEL BONE sticks out in back.

STUDENTS: Two 12 x 18 papers, charcoal or Ebony (soft) pencil.  Two drawings of the skeleton, a front or back view and a side view. Top of the skull at the top edge of the page and feet at the bottom edge.  This will be close to accurate proportion if the pubic bone is placed just below the center of the paper (don't guess, measure center).  Be sure to sketch the entire skeleton lightly before adjusting proportions or describing details. These two studies do not need small detail such as wrist and finger/toe bones. They should be ONLY AS DETAILED AS NEEDED TO UNDERSTAND AND REMEMBER STRUCTURE AND MECHANICS.

HOMEWORK:(#2) If possible get someone to pose; if not, imagine human forms in action. Draw as many as you can showing axes for limbs and rough shapes for rib cage, pelvis and skull. And/or draw the skeletal structure right on magazine/newspaper sports photos. Do many instead of a detailed few.