The Art of Figure Drawing

by Clem Robins

Accompanied by annotated drawings and step-by-step demonstrations, an instructional guide shows readers how to portray the male and female form in the classic style by combining direct observation of the human body with an analysis of anatomy, perspective, light, shade, and composition. Original.

Genres: Art, Nonfiction, Reference

144 pages, Paperback

First published January 10, 2003

Reviews

[Kevin de Ataíde · Rating 5 out of 5]

Probably the best book I've read in this genre, which doesn't descend into detailed anatomy in the first ten page, but instead begins with modelling and technique. As Bridgman said, 'the science of anatomy is a comparatively recent acquisition of the race,' dissection not too long ago being forbidden by law and religion. And yet, anatomy is the preoccupation of most approaches.

Although it calls itself the 'complete guide,' this book is more a guide than complete, which is great for a rather slim book that recommends other reference books on specific elements. Here is my rather rare five-star rating, but this time for an art book.

[Oscar · Rating 4 out of 5]

More full of beautiful classic figure drawing than anything else, but there are still nuggets of wisdom to be found.

[K · Rating 2 out of 5]

Took it out from the library. Skimmed it. Not good for a beginner.

Too much text. Not enough process. I imagine this is more theory than process.

[David Carlson · Rating 5 out of 5]

Helpful technical discussions as well as a kind and of method.

[Sherry (sethurner) · Rating 4 out of 5]

It's hard for me to review this book, just because I borrowed it from the library and have just begun a figure drawing class. There is too much here for me to absorb in a read through. I really need to work with a book over time to assess how helpful it really it. Right now all the information is simply overwhelming. I can say that the book is divided into three sections, The Elements of Drawing, The Technique of Figure Drawing, and Problem Solving. The author has many illustration and gives step-by-step illustrations of how to work with Prismacolor pencils, black and white on toned backgrounds, and using an ink wash