Have you that ever wanted to learn how to draw a human head from scratch? With a few simple steps and a little practice, you can bring your sketches to life and create amazing works of art. Drawing a human head isn’t as daunting as it seems and with a few simple techniques, even the newest student of art can make beautiful portraits. So put away your fears and let’s get sketching!
1. Start with the Essential Elements
The most vital element of drawing a human head is its form and shape. Begin by sketching a basic version of a head looking straight ahead. Use light and very faint lines to mark out the essential shapes – this could be an oval for the head and a cross or T to mark out the eyes and nose. This forms the outline of the head. Draw a horizontal line beneath the head and a line slightly below that. These will become the shoulders.
2. Establish Facial Features
Now that the general outline is established, it’s time to add facial features! Draw the eyes on either side of the vertical line: use a curved shape to encase them and draw a circle inside for the pupils. Draw the eyebrow line above them and use wavy lines for the lashes. Beneath the eyes, draw the nose with a curved line and little triangles at either side for the nostrils. Below the nose, draw the lips.
3. Work on Hair and Skin
Aside from the face, add details like hair, neck and other features. Add a loose shape to suggest hair, make sure the lines are wispy and light. Don’t make it too intricate or complicated. Draw the neck by extending a line from the shoulders, and beneath that, add the chest area. You can also sketch some other light details like clothing, jewelry, or accessories.
4. Experiment and Practice
There are an endless combination of shapes and sizes when it comes to drawing a human head, so let your imagination wander. Test out different angles – what happens when you tilt the head slightly forward or to the side? Can you make your subject look happy, sad or grim? Play around with the various expressions and see what you can come up with. The best way to get better is to practice on a regular basis. Keep drawing and you’re sure to improve!
