Take a moment to observe how we’ve underscored a sense of depth by
creating different layers and different tones with our pencil. Look
closely. Can you see the subtle horizontal line of shadow that runs just
under her bangs? This serves to bring the bangs forward, as a separate
layer. The section of her hair closest to us is shaded lightly, while the
part of her hair farthest from us is shaded darkly (rear, hanging layer).
A horizontal sheen of light forms across her bangs. This gives the
forehead a rounded look.
THE 7/8 VIEW
There are four basic head “tilts,” or positions, that every artist should
know. They include the front view, the side view, the 3/4 view, and
one more, which is curiously absent in most drawing books: the 7/8
view. The 7/8 angle creates a particularly appealing portrait and is
also commonly seen in various forms of illustration and in many
classical portrait paintings by the masters, which are displayed in
museums. In this view, the face appears highly chiseled and well
defined. This angle enhances the stature of the subject.
The most important step in drawing this angle is the first one: the
correct placement of the center line. The center line must be placed
far to one side of the head and, likewise, the bridge of the nose. Then
all the other features will fall into place.
To demonstrate the 7/8 angle, we’ll use a simple globe with vertical
and horizontal axes to represent the human head: