In Progress: Head Drawing
In this class, students will work from a live model as we move step-by-step through the essential process of creating a portrait. We will break the session into four foundational stages: Gesture and Proportion, Unified Shadow Shapes, Cast Shadow vs. Form Shadow, & Details, Light, and Accents.
Description
In this class, students will work from a live model as we move step-by-step through the essential process of creating a portrait. We will break the session into four foundational stages:
1. Gesture and Proportion
We’ll begin by establishing the overall gesture and major proportional relationships, setting a strong foundation for the likeness.
2. Unified Shadow Shapes
Next, we’ll simplify the portrait into clear, unified shadow masses to organize the value structure and create a sense of solidity.
3. Cast Shadow vs. Form Shadow
We’ll deepen our study by learning to recognize and interpret the difference between cast shadows and form shadows—an important distinction that brings depth and realism to the portrait.
4. Details, Light, and Accents
Finally, we’ll refine the portrait with carefully observed details, highlights, and dark accents to bring the study to completion.
By the end of class, students will complete a full portrait study in a single session. This workshop is designed to be approachable for all levels, offering clear instruction and hands-on guidance throughout.
About the Instructor
Ray Mendieta is a Northern California native who has worked as a professional artist and art instructor for over 25 years.
He has taught at the Academy of Art University in San Francisco and currently teaches drawing and painting at the Pacific Art League in Palo Alto. Ray also runs his own art school at University Art in Redwood City.
Ray has held solo exhibitions at the Pacific Art League Gallery, Tali Hill Galleries, QD Gallery, and the Academy of Art Gallery, and he currently exhibits at QD Gallery in Palo Alto, California.
He earned his Master of Fine Arts degree from the Academy of Art University in San Francisco. Over the course of his career, Ray has sold hundreds of paintings to collectors around the world.