Always studying

As an artist, I try to use direct references as little as possible. Ideally, not at all. But that doesn’t mean I’m not studying.

I see this image of @michaelbjordan and the arm is a perfect reference for posing, perspective, lighting, composition, etc.

Notice where the brightest highlights hit in the deltoid, the tricep, and the brachioradialis. (That weird forearm muscle on the top/outside of the arm) And how the shadow wraps around the forearm and is darkest at the base. Note how the deepest darkest form shadows hit under the tricep and brachioradialis.

Notice how the shape of the deltoid “squishes” and is nearly straight across at its base, and the prominence of the anterior deltoid and its deceptively large size. Also note the relative shortness of the humerus (bicep part of the arm) compared to the extreme length of the forearm.

I’ll take an image like this and stare at it for half an hour and log as much of it in my brain as I can. I let the image marinate and then I allow my interpretation of that image to influence my future work.

Shout out to the always badass @bosslogic … I had to steal this dude. Hope that’s ok?! 😅