Anatomy of the Head and Neck | New Masters Academy

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In order to draw the complexity of the human head, we need to first study the anatomy of the muscles and bones that make up the skull and face. This course includes topics such as the structure of the skull, individual bones of the skull, deep muscles of the face, skeleton of the neck & shoulder girdle, and muscles of the shoulder girdle.

4 Lessons 11h 22m 12s of videos

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Level 1

1. How to Draw The Skull WithIliya Mirochnik

The skull was a critical part of the learning process at the Repin academy. In this lesson, Iliya will break down the construction and anatomical features of the skull.

2. How to Draw the Muscles of the Face WithIliya Mirochnik

In this lesson we will be using reference from one-of-a-kind castings of a real human cadaver by famed art anatomist Eliot Goldfinger to do a study of the form creating muscles of the face.

3. How to Draw the Skeletal Neck & Shoulder Girdle WithIliya Mirochnik

In this lesson, you will learn the skeletal structure of the neck, clavicles and scapulae, and how they articulate to create the shoulder girdle.

4. How to Draw the Muscles of the Neck WithIliya Mirochnik

In this lesson you will do a study of the form creating muscles of the neck using reference from one-of-a-kind castings of a real human cadaver by famed art anatomist Eliot Goldfinger.

Common Questions

Why the Russian Academic Method?

Seldom taught outside of Russia, the “imperial” drawing and painting method was uninterrupted by the modern art movements that transformed representational art in the West. The training has been preserved from one generation to the next within an institution which has changed remarkably little over the last 250 years. The method provides a unique and clear lineage to the greater art traditions of the past. More than that, the artwork produced in this approach is impressive in its combination of constructive solidity and observational sensitivity.

Who is this course for?

This course is intended for any artist who wants to improve their drawing skills as well people new to drawing.

Can I take this course if I'm new to drawing?

Absolutely! The Russian academic drawing method is a powerful tool for any new artist. The skills you learn in this course will last you a lifetime and set you up well for working from observation or from imagination.

How is this approach different from sight-size academic methods?

Sight-size is a primarily optical and observational drawing approach where the value patterns as they fall on the eye are transferred in 1:1 scale from life to the paper or canvas. The Russian approach is observational as well but it also utilizes construction which produces a more three-dimensional and solid look.

Is this approach good for painters?

Yes! This approach is fantastic for painters and it has been tied to the Russian painting method which will be recorded in early 2020.

How does the coaching program work?

The NMA Coaching program provides professional art mentors to students. The coaches develop personalized curriculum and guide students in their artistic development. The Russian Academic Drawing Course integrates with this program in a special way in that Iliya Mirochnik himself is available as a coach to provide guidance to students taking this course. Availability is limited. Learn more at: https://www.nma.art/coaching/

If I am not enrolled in coaching, what other ways can I get feedback?

If you're not in the coaching program you can still share your progress with other subscribers in the NMA Community Forums. We highly encourage students to work together on projects and help each other progress.

Is there more information available about this course?

You can read a description of this course by New Masters Academy founder Joshua Jacobo here: https://www.nma.art/introducing-the-russian-academic-tradition/

If I want to study this program full-time, in person how would do that?

You would need to travel to Saint Petersburg and study at the Repin Academy. You can learn more here: https://eng.rah.ru/