Essential Human Anatomy for Artists

CHAPTER 3

THE HEAD AND NECK

Here, you’ll learn about the anatomy, planes, muscles, and proportions of the skull and neck. Also included are step-by-step drawings of the stages I think are most important to consider when constructing a portrait. Muscles of facial expression and mastication are also explored and illustrated, along with expressions of the six basic emotions: happiness, sadness, surprise, fear, anger, and disgust.

Ken Goldman, Head Studies from Life, watercolor on paper, 12" × 9" (30 × 23 cm) (detail)

Painting from many foreshortened angles is a rewarding challenge.

THE CERVICAL SPINE: COLOR CODED

The seven vertical vertebrae. ...