[Jan]

This drawing is from the Asaro Planes of the Head lesson. As I mentioned in the previous post, the proportions are off since I was trying to follow Iliya in real time.

[Jan]

I decided to start from the beginning with the Russian Academic Drawing Course instead of jumping right into the Asaro Planes of the Head portion. At this point I’ve completed the first seven sections. As others have stated, Iliya’s teaching is fabulous! Following along with him in real time has been especially helpful. I didn’t worry too much about proportion on these particular drawings, so I know they are all a little “off”. I tried to follow his marks exactly although it proved to be a little tricky since I’m right-handed. I’m posting three of the more “finished” exercises before I continue with the Skull Drawing Project.

[Jan]

I think you did a great job! I’m also currently working through the Russian Academic Course and have almost finished the skull lesson. I agree that it was challenging to get the transition from the temporal bone to the parietal bone to read correctly, but you seem to have handled it very well. (You gave me an idea, too, about framing one of my skull drawings for my son who is a med student!) As far as a decent Asaro head reference, I found a 3D Model on Sketchfab.com. Awesome job on your 100 Day Challenge so far!

[Jan]

I recently did the same study in pencil. I’m extremely impressed that you accomplished this in ink! Wow! I just looked back at your other work so I’m not as surprised now. You’re very talented in so many different media! I love Day 25-26 and Day 27 Ballpoint Pen Figure Drawings.

[Jan]

These are great! The proportions all look accurate and you have an excellent understanding of facial structure. I’m impressed, too, with the amount of detail you’ve included in such quick sketches. The only recommendation I have is to maybe push the values further. I look forward to seeing more of your work!

[Jan]

I really appreciate the feedback! I agree with you that the planes on the neck were not reading well. I did some more work on both sides and I think that area is a little clearer now. Thank you again for the helpful suggestions!

[Jan]

I am awe! I watched the entire video and, as others have said, found it full of invaluable tips as well as inspiration. What you accomplished in your 100 Day Challenge is amazing!

[Jan]

Your drawings are inspiring!!! I’ve been doing the exact same courses for the past four months, but you seem to be making more progress! I’m guilty of spending more time doing fully finished portraits. Judging from your work I need to focus more on quicker studies. I know others on this site have talked about how important quantity is for improving. I love the Cesar Santos quote: “As much time as I spend on this stuff, I should be a lot better than I am.” That fits me perfectly. Also, I’m glad that your recovery from the accident is going well. Keep up the great work!

[Jan]

Your progress is very impressive! I’ve learned so much from following your thread especially since I’ve been doing many of the same exercises in the portrait drawing series. I also like completing longer drawings as a break from videos and quick studies. I had to laugh because I started on a drawing of Amina from the reference images but wasn’t sure I was ready for the hair over her face. You handled it beautifully! Although the shadows and her eyes are quite dark in the photos, it seems that the way you’ve modeled the forms really attracts the viewer to the lighter areas. If you made the shadows darker on the face it might take away from the contrast between the background and her face. But I’m struggling right now with value design, so it will be interesting to hear what someone more experienced recommends! Keep up the amazing work! Also, I wanted to say that I’m so sorry about your dad. I went through a similar experience. I hope you all find peace.

[Jan]

Your studies are beautiful! You have an excellent grasp of value, composition, and perspective. As others have commented, I like your technique as well. Now that I’m trying to concentrate more on tonal studies and value design, I really appreciate your ability. A few of my favorites (among many) are Days 34, 35, 49 and 53. I can definitely relate to your comments about staying focused on the original idea without getting lost in the rendering!

[Jan]

I know this is a really long reply, but I hope it’s helpful! Since joining NMA in February most of my time has been spent working through the Head Drawing for Beginners series which includes lessons by Chris Legaspi, Charles Hu, Mark Westermoe (Reilly Method) and Steve Huston. I followed the suggested order of the courses which worked well for me. Last week I started the Constructive Head Drawing Series with Steve Huston. The lessons have all been excellent! Although there is overlap in the concepts, the approaches are different, so I find I learn something completely new (to me) from each instructor. I like to take a break from exercises every week or so and complete a more finished drawing which has helped me consolidate what I’ve learned. I’ve also gained so much from just reading through the forums. NMA is an absolutely incredible resource both for learning technical skills and for inspiration. There are so many courses I want to take that I’ll never get through them all. Good luck with your personal journey!

[Jan]

This is a beautiful portrait of your son! I looked back at other work you have posted. You are extremely talented. The pieces are very engaging with both your choice of color and the way you apply it. I also love the photo that shows your studio. It looks like an inspiring place to create!

[Jan]

I greatly appreciate your feedback, Joshua! I’ve been concentrating on head construction but haven’t spent much time learning how to organize the light and shadow areas. My next focus will be value control!

[Jan]

That’s a great self-portrait. Very expressive! I know what you mean about being surprised at how large the image looks after it uploads!

[Jan]

I love all of your work! The postings from 35.1 to 38 are especially beautiful. The unusual perspectives really draw you in. Your marker drawings are spectacular!

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