Drawing tutorial 1
By William Li (lothlorien@fenyx.com), Gallery 6.
Copyright 2001 William Li.
http://elfwood.lysator.liu.se/farp/index.html

1st page: Introduction and Pose - 2nd page: Body Language - 3th page: Balance - 4th page: Motion and Action + Construction (The Skeleton) - 5th page: Body Building + Solid Masses - 6th page: Variations

	Body language Stick figures, again Now that you know how important it is to master proportions through simple stick figures, we go to the next use of stick figures: 'the pose'. Or simpler said: what is your character doing? With stick figures you can easily try out many, many positions before you commit to one for the real drawing. Using this as a preparation to your drawing also helps you see beforehand if you can pull off the pose, if you need reference material for it, if you will run out of paper while drawing, etc. Yes, the lowly stick figure does help you plan your next masterpiece. Stick figures in action Here are a few examples how you can use a stick figure to determine a pose. You will also see quickly enough if it is a natural or comfortable pose. Otherwise you could try to mimic the pose yourself and find out ;)
	Throwing a spear.
	I think this one is dancing or something...
	The running man Here you see the use of some foreshortening in the pelvis and the shoulders because we are looking from his side.
	The gladiator Again some foreshortening in the lower arm with the 'sword'. Also note the twist in the torso: a very natural stance, especially when turning to see something.
	Sadness or looking for his contact lens...
	The lounge Here is another example of a twisted torso. Shoulders and hips are turned at an angle.
	Weirdo Either impossible or very uncomfortable. At any rate it looks silly ;)
	Lesson Try drawing stick figures in action. Pay keen attention to the proportions. You will gain some insight to dynamics and motion of the human body.

Next lesson: Balance