Foundations of Observational Drawing
Week 16: Figure Drawing - Torso

Understanding the Structure of the Torso

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The torso, or trunk of the body, is a complex structure that includes the chest (thorax), abdomen, and pelvis. Understanding its anatomy is essential for drawing realistic human figures.

Key Components

  1. Skeleton:

    • Ribcage: Protects the heart and lungs. It’s cone-shaped, wider at the top, and tapers toward the waist.

    • Spine: Supports the torso and allows flexibility. It consists of the cervical, thoracic, and lumbar vertebrae.

    • Pelvis: Supports the spine and connects to the legs. It has a bowl-like shape, providing a stable base.

  2. Muscles:

    • Pectoralis Major: Covers the upper chest, attaching to the humerus, clavicle, and sternum. It’s responsible for arm movement.

    • Rectus Abdominis: Runs vertically along the front of the abdomen, creating the “six-pack” look. It flexes the spine.

    • External Obliques: Located on the sides of the abdomen, they help in rotating and bending the torso.

    • Latissimus Dorsi: Large muscle covering the lower back, aiding in arm movement and spine extension.

Drawing Techniques

  1. Basic Shapes:

    • Simplify the torso into basic geometric shapes like cylinders for the ribcage and pelvis, and an oval for the abdomen.

    • This helps in establishing the overall structure and proportion before adding details.

  2. Proportional Measuring:

    • The torso is approximately three heads tall. The ribcage takes up about two heads, and the pelvis about one head.

    • Use these measurements to maintain correct proportions.

  3. Gesture Drawing:

    • Start with a gesture drawing to capture the overall flow and movement of the torso.

    • Focus on the line of action and the tilt of the ribcage and pelvis.

  4. Adding Detail:

    • Once the basic shapes and proportions are established, refine the drawing by adding details like muscle contours and the curves of the spine and ribcage.

    • Pay attention to how muscles overlap and connect to create a realistic form.

Tips and Key Takeaways

  • Use References: Study anatomical charts and reference images to understand the underlying structure.

  • Practice Regularly: Regular practice will help you internalize the anatomy and improve your drawing accuracy.

  • Focus on Proportion: Maintaining correct proportions is crucial for a realistic depiction.

  • Understand Movement: The torso is flexible, so understanding how it moves and bends will enhance the dynamism of your drawings.

  • Observe Real Life: Study real people to see how the torso changes with different poses and movements.

By focusing on these key components and techniques, you will develop a solid understanding of the torso’s structure, enhancing your ability to draw realistic human figures