In this lesson, instructor Leo Mancini-Hresko will show you how to create a portrait drawing of a live model using the sight-size method. Here, you will focus on the blocking-in stage. Leo will teach you how to set up your working space, measure, and create the initial drawing. You will also learn to establish the first tonal pass to the shadows.

This lesson belongs to the course Sight-Size Portrait Project. In this crash course, Leo Mancini-Hresko will teach you how to draw a portrait of a live model using the sight-size method. You will learn to apply the same technique used for drawing three-dimensional objects to a human portrait, with the difference being that your model will be slightly moving. Leo will start with a block-in of the model. Then, you will watch him focus on modeling form and unifying values. After this course, you will develop great confidence in creating tonal portrait drawings from life.

Throughout this course, you’ll have access to the NMA community for feedback and critiques to improve your work as you progress.