If you enjoy this kind of stylized stuff, I think you'll like my full deeper dive walkthrough tutorial www.beneblen.com/tutorial It includes... a 🎥8+ hour real-time walkthrough, 📚 40+ page Field guide, 🗿3D models to study from, 📁PSD files & a Procreate tutorial to reference from
This is a misunderstanding of Loomis. Loomis himself showed that there was multiple shapes of the skull like it's fitted into a specific shape. You can make the "Circle" more square, more triangle, literally anything. Obviously it's not near as stylized as yours but... still.
you might've forgot to pin this but I'd suggest doing so. edit: and the video ends a little abruptly. but its a really awesome video, just wanna give a lil feedback cause i really wanna see more :D
Loomis makes it very clear in his book that the ''loomis method'' is supposed to help the student to think about the head as a 3d structure, while also teaching the basics of construction in drawing. I find it annoying when I come across these UA-cam videos going about the ''loomis method'', as if his book was only that, when in fact, only the first couple pages are about this basic construction. He talks about the importance of thinking about planes and gives us a basic planed head (simpler than the asaro, btw). His book covers anatomy, tone, expressions, rhythm, shape design and common mistakes beginners make. Loomis deserves A LOT more credit :)
0:46 WOW Ben, it's like you reached into my brain and pulled out my thoughts. Creating stylized art with structural methods is the exact issue I've been struggling with for years.
I think there's some place in the books where Loomis himself said his method isn't something to be strictly adhered to, but is just a general guide as a starting point. And his goal in developing and using the method was to just get proportions more consistent for what he considered an idealized appearance. (In "Fun with a Pencil" he does more caricature stuff than the kind of thing he's more traditionally associated with. And it gets into geometric forms as part of shape language just like this video. If you can't find it at a library, there are ways of using the internet.)
Somebody should develop a method of just asking the internet and give it a goofy sounding name so everyone can remember it... like scroogling or something... ;o)
Yeah, I recently read the book, even he skips some parts and some faces don't follow every rule. Weirdly enough, there are some rules that still follow the general proportions, some anime faces have the same proportions of a baby Loomis face.
Yes, I have learned a lot with Fun with a Pencil that uses different lines to construct the head, you choose what you wish but keeping the fact that the head is a rigid structure and that eyes, nose and ears attach to it and move, rotate and go up and down with it. For me these are the basics, then it comes artistic genius and well ... this is another matter. I can draw enough not to insult my viewers and well that's all.
It's good to see the different methods as guides rather than something to strictly adhere to. Overtime you'll develop a process that is uniquely yours. Thanks for the super informative video!
You basically did what a beginner artists does when finding their art style never have I thought doing that with structure of anatomy before I CAN’T BELIEVE IT never came to mind for me thank you for sharing this
I watched this because I’ve been having a hard time drawing things in general. Watching this made me realize that I’m not thinking/picturing in my head what I want before I draw, so obviously I’m gonna have a very frustrating session when I don’t know what I want in the first place. So uh thanks for making me realize that. 😅
What I learned as an artist is that, at the start we follow the rule, then we learn to break them to found our own style. Sadly new artists tend to break the rule early and end up making lots of mistake that could be easly avoided. (Then there is "IA artist" that didn't even started and they already break the rules and end up not even knowing to draw a stick men by themself haha)
Remember that one friend who started drawing at 5 all by himself? That one friend who drew like a pro at 15? Have you ever catched to him? If you have no intention of becoming pro you can just do stuff by yourself out of passion and one day you will wake up good. All those methods and rules... Do not guarantee you anything. If you are overwhelmed by them just drop them and do your thing for a while. If you think about it some of the best "players" in any field of life are those who skip the rules.
@@delanmorstik7619check out Seth Godin book, "the practice" im barely into listening to it and he's got a profound way of observing this phenomenon as being institutionally brainwashed on outcomes-based ideologies and the dynamics behind behaviors like these and how they lead to original innovation thats inherently genuine. It a whole lot more than that but it explains some of the things you observe that seem to happen in a vacuum free of influence but deeper into explaining it as less a savant type of thing. Worth checking out you actually just reminded me to follow up on it lol
@@delanmorstik7619 To a point. Say you are a beginner artist. Using Loomis as an example, say you want to draw and NEVER want to use the Loomis method to draw heads. Even if you never want to use the Loomis method, that DOES NOT mean studying the Loomis method won't teach you anything that will help you improve your art whether you use the Loomis method or not. UNDERSTANDING form is ultimately the key that unlocks the pandoras box to drawing. Loomis doesn't just give you a blue print to draw a head. He helps you understand shape, form. The why of his method (which is what this video is getting at). Understanding why Loomis does what he does, is why studying the Loomis method will help you whether you use it or not. Huston has a 3 hour instructional video of drawing the head on youtube. It's not 3 hours of "make a sail boat shape". It's 3 hours of him explaining and demonstrating why and how it relates to the form and shape of the head. You don't have to use it, to get anything out of the instruction and studying/practicing it for yourself.
No one would ever guess that this is your first UA-cam video! Super informative and entertaining all the way through! The edit was incredible as well! Great job.
When I first started drawing faces I drew them intuitively, without much guidelines, and I developed a sense for what kinds of proportions I liked in my drawings. Recently I've been trying to brush up on my fundamentals by watching videos about the loomis method, etc. and I could really relate to the idea of trying to fit a square peg into a round hole-- the loomis method helped me to visualize heads from different angles, but it was difficult to apply it to my own style. Thank you so much for all the useful tips! definitely going to check out some of the artists and methods you listed!❤
I totally agree: For many years I thought that the Loomis method is important for drawing. But I struggled with it, because every head looked the same and not even good. For me it was always a frustrating method that kept me to bounderies and blocked creativity.
The most valuable educational content on a platform on UA-cam not when people teach you how to do a thing, but when people share how all of the other teaching content out there has failed them. There’s nothing more relatable and helpful than somebody saying “I also had trouble with X Y or Z. Here’s how I overcame this, and maybe it will help you too.” Brilliant video! Instant subscribe and I went to binge the rest of your content-only to realize this is your first proper video. My goodness this is good quality.
I've been learning to illustrate and was so focused on trying to meet the status quo that I never considered to ask "why?". This video not only helped me get unstuck from adhering to "the rules" too closely, but it also showed me a logical way of seeing how the process works. For example, I never quite understood where and when references are typically used. I would find myself copying too early which hindered my creativity from going "how do I want this to look?" and trying too hard to be like everyone else. Now I feel some more freedom to be myself and still learn from others. THANK YOU FOR THIS.
The thing most beginners (including me) forget is that even though you may get advice from others but its not guaranteed to work because your hand movement may not adapt to it. I like to just trust my hand flow, remember anatomy studies and loosely use references. I still like to remember methods for certain things and I try to study anatomy daily but you have to remember, your art is just how you imagine and execute your thoughts on paper.
I love this. The Loomis method never resonated for me for a few reasons as well - mechanical, robotic looking results without understanding the reasons for shapes used. Of course, it's successful for a reason - but my view on this is that it's worth putting in the time to understand the Loomis construction instead of just following it blindly. Once you understand how to analyze what you see to derive shapes from everyday life, it's not a bad idea to use the Loomis method as one of the tools to draw faces, especially with repetition. As much as I've been drawing my entire life, I like to credit online resources like Marco Bucci's "10 minutes to better art" for helping me to develop my approach. Ethan Becker is another with fantastic ways to simplify your approach to character design, as well as train your eye to observe like an artist.
I believe that drawing the head is more about comprehending the structure of the skull than adhering to any specific technique. The methods of Loomis and Huston are beneficial because they aid in visualizing the head more effectively. Ultimately, it all comes down to having a deep understanding of the three-dimensional forms.
I don’t comment often but this video popped up in my recommended feed, ironically at a time where I want to get back into drawing again. I will say, this video singlehandedly make it *click* in my brain. Everything, in every way you described, fully helped me understand what and where I was going wrong :)
I appreciate this video because of how it highlights the importance of integration of knowledge. Part of anyone's art journey is taking all the things you've learned and studied and using them to form your own style. You'll likely develop your own techniques on how to achieve certain looks you're after too. Students, especially brand-new students, need to understand fundamentals and work with basic ideas before advancing to more complex theories and subject matters. This is true for every field be it art or science, etc. A great teacher encourages you to find that sweet spot of respect for others' methods whilst also experimenting and giving yourself permission to do things your own way. Adhering to tried and true methods is great to nail down a solid foundation, but the point of a foundation is that the structure that grows from it has something sturdy to rely on, so it's never meant to be the final form for anyone.
Loving the jazzy vibes, and varied visuals. This suits you so much! I'm so impressed by how quickly you've picked up the Youtubing thing. You've become one of my favorite teachers and artists. As always, see you where it all started, the live streams!
The strong and clear visual communication via animated overlays/strokes/3D model interpolations & turnarounds makes this one of the easiest to digest tutorials on a complicated topic. Keep up the excellent work!
You’ve just shown me the answer to a question I didn’t realize I had… I’m a very rigid thinker, so didn’t know how to get what I want with the Loomis method. Thanks!
2:25 You just blew my mind, everything just clicked together, I wondered why a certain artists technique like Loomis would work for one angle but not for the side view of the head, but drawing the side view of the head worked for another method…I did the same thing for artstyles, I would pick and choose bits and pieces of an artists stylization and add it to my own to create my own artstyle…It’s the same thing for drawing techniques! You helped me so much thank you
Personally, I love that centre line for angling the face and getting a sense of direction, and tweaking that direction before all the work of drawing in the features. I find it more helpful than the sides of the face of that purpose ^^ Great video! I see so many make the mistake of thinking art didnt exist before loomis wrote the method down and that loomis is the only way to construct head!
I’ve been struggling with portraits for months now. Following this video helped me tremendously with anatomy issues and help me find a personal style. Thanks so much.
The 3D models and visual demonstrations are INSANELY helpful! And I really appreciate you breaking down your thought processes and explaining the synthesis that contributes to growth. You're 'lifting the curtain' on the mind of an artist, so to speak.
I am a professional artist myself and I still struggle so much with this x.x it is really difficult to unlearn yourself these weird habits they feed you and then reteach yourself something new, but it's so worth it to finally have your own and unique style that you are absolutely in love with. I was taught how to draw realism and it has been a struggle learning how to create the stylized characters I want for my pieces and stories, but this really helps. Thank you so much!!
Ben, I got back into drawing about 6 months ago. It's been a struggle because I constantly compare myself to several other artists, which in turn bums me out, which leads to days without practice, which leads to "why am I so bad?". Rinse and repeat. Anyway, I want to say that your videos have been a shining beacon of positively to me and I want to thank you. You and your videos and encouragement do mean a lot to some of us little people. :)
I’ve only just found you today, and I massively appreciate how fast-paced your presentation is. It’s all so neurodivergent-friendly, the clearly defined phases and chapters, the flowing motion graphics, and I’m a big fan of the time bar during the cutaway segments and ad reads. Small detail, but they help me understand where to draw my attention.
You are one of the best resources when it comes to learning drawing and painting at nearly any level. I really appreciate your straight forward approach and thoughtful explanations of your thought process. It's refreshing to finally see someone who really breaks down the process.
Honestly man, ive been at the end of my rope with art lately, feeling like none of the methods are working for me, giving me the same head every time give or take, and hearing this is so affirming for me. Thanks man, these kinds of vids help so much.
When you showed the center line being the profile of the face I think my brain exploded. I never would have thought to approach drawing this way. I stopped drawing for a number of years, truly drawing, and I feel guilty and want to hone my skill. I want to become an artist that's confident, as well as find my own style. Your video was really inspiring and makes me want to jump back in and give it a shot. God bless you and thank you so much!
Where were you two years ago when I was really struggling with this stuff?? 😭 But seriously, I guess it was frustrating that it took so long, but on the other hand, what I love most about art is the discovery. It felt so good when things started finally clicking. And it did, like some things just suddenly clicked, after I had failed time and time again. It's a great feeling.
the thing about copying guidelines and sketching process from timelapses videos is spot on, I just realised I was automaticaly doing that without even thinking why, expecting it to solve all the anatomy problems if I got it exactly like that one artist does in his process.
Oh my god I cannot express enough how much this video has saved me. ~a little tangent~ I haven't been drawing for years and I recently started college doing arts. My professor would go on teaching methods like loomis method and I thought it would improve my art. It didn't. It got worse. I was so fixated into making sure that the dimensions of my character were right and all of my drawings ended up looking the same. After watching this video, DRAWING HAS NEVER FELT SO REAL YET SO RIGHT. This is the first time in years that I've enjoyed drawing so much and I can't thank you enough for this video❤
your art, content, edition, production.. everything is on point. thank you for making this content I think the works behind it shows a lot and at the same time the fact that you use your knowledge to teach us is a privilage.
Great video and explanation. I’ve tried the Reilly method and could never understand it. Michael Hurston ehh ok. loomis was ok as well. I finally got to the point now I have to put my own method in what works for me in my drawings. I love this one artist Loish work and it’s simple how she starts and get the face shape or the eyes and the spacing correct. I started to study the how part as u stated. And once I practiced myself . I’ve noticed a change and saw some of the things I needed to correct in my art. The shape of the face and or gestures and dynamics of whatever I’m drawing were off. Love this vid please do more.❤
Thanks so much! Ahh that’s awesome to hear you’re seeing progress. Loish’s art is amazing and definitely one to learn from 💯. So glad you enjoyed it, and there’s definitely more where this came from!
I really don’t often comment on a yt video, but i feel the need to say: this video is very well produced! I really appreciate all the work that has lead to this fluent, informative, visual explanation. Thank you very very much!
THIS IS THE KIND OF ILLUSTRATION IVE BEEN WAITING TO SEE. Yes! Yours is kind of like a Tex Avery/Chuck Jones style, updated and brought into the 3d style. I love it. Please upload more.
I’ve never found someone who shows their thoughts in 3D and then how they translate it to 2D until you! That’s been my struggle is thinking in 3d but not always knowing the best way to translate that and wow it made so much sense
Haven't even finished the video yet and you've broken down a major roadblock for me in my creative ventures oddly enough you've even helped me with a hurdle in my writing. I've been held back for so long on so many things because I'm trying to force things into a specific style instead of just taking the bits I like and making my own "me" style Thank you
I'm good at copying things (real ones or drawings someone already made) because I see them as random lines and colors. I suck at understanding 3D shapes, or worse, imagining non existent ones so I can draw stylized... But when you put those 3D models in the video, something clicked for me! I love your style and your way of explaining things.
Ben, this is dramatically underrated. This is the most helpful video i've ever found by far, mostly because every other video talks about the same damn guidelines and proportions, but i prefer much more the way you break down your process for the sketch of a face, it feels much more natural and simple in my opinion. Of course, there isn't just one way to do stuff, but once you know your basic facial structure this is a great way to move forward. Thank you for sharing this video, helped me lots!!
This video is completely relatable. I've tried using the Riley method for every approach in my studies and has held me back eversince. This is a complete game changer. Thanks, Ben.
There are many things in this video that I strongly agree with as a student. My style is very inconsistent and that is because (excluding the fact that I'm inexperienced) I use certain methods or techniques when I draw different things. Loomis method and riley method are so helpful and I love those methods when practicing but at the end of the day, I do understand that those techniques are just for studying. When it comes to character designing, my method is heavily based on shape language. Also glad that you quoted that line of Kim Jung Gi. Never knew he said that but couldn't agree more. Like my teacher said "try to draw in your head first before actually drawing on paper".
I really like how you broke evereything down. It's difficult sometimes to understand these well-known methods. Like a lot of these methods dont really make snese to me, so its really hard to learn from them. The methods kinda make it more confusing, but seeing you break them down and piece them together helps a lot!
It's cool to see Ben mention the same thing in a sense that Ethan did regarding Kim, that hes not just drawing randomly but in fact is seeing the lines/perspectives etc in his head - on paper.
What you've hit on here is something most young would-be artists usually miss completely; that their favorite art is just a stylistic choice. I've lost count of the number of youngsters that have had a fit at their art instructors giving them hell for drawing anime/manga characters. They just don't understand that the teacher is trying to show them how to draw anatomy correctly, and to get the basics down, before they go on to modify or stylise a character. They just want to jump right in and reproduce what they've seen without understanding exactly what has been altered and why. The fact is, if you want to draw a realistic human head, as you would when drawing someone's portrait, then there is a particular method for doing that. BUT... if you're working on an animated series, and need to exaggerate facial expressions so that they come across well on a small TV screen, then you've gotta make some adjustments from the normal range of real human feature. And since the people who teach art at the place you'll go to get an art degree are supposed to be turning out good general artists... they don't teach that stuff, nor want students picking up "bad habits" that only make the instructor's job harder. ( Sorry, but real girls don't have pointy chins, eyes the size of saucers, and mouths you couldn't force a greased grape through. 🤣 )
Great video! I never took these methods as 'the' way I have to draw heads because I felt it was too limiting otherwise, but they are valuable for understanding the head (a good artistic simplification of anatomy) and can provide answers to problems that pop up in a piece. When learning I found that asking yourself why something is useful is a lot more important and also motivating than just blindly following 'rules'; it will also save you a lot of time when learning, because you can quickly implement elements into what you already know.
Your drawing technique and learning style are just wonderful! It combines paying attention to structure, but the main thing still remains a gesture. This is exactly what I was looking for! Thank you very much!
Ive always used the loomis till today, but i keep discarding the major shapes i put down first bc they dont look right in the stylised way i wanna go, you opened my eyes, truly!
Amazing video. Informative, to the point. So many art videos just vaguely dabble in ideas for drawing rather than affording actual advice. I actually learned something!!! Awesome work.
using the center line as a way to outline the profile was useful for me. It makes it more clear that a simple center line . Altho I use the first line more to orient where I want the face to be in the planning stage
Wow genuinely one of the best videos I’ve seen on UA-cam about drawing. Felt like you were speaking directly to the things I’m struggling with in my drawings. Thank you! Please keep making content
If no one has told you lately, you are AMAZING! Just found this video, subscribed, & have your course in my cart as we speak. Thank you from the bottom of my big ol' artsy heart!
This videos makes me realize that i still stuck in that one rigid way, like OH MY GOD you totally right! why dont i just mix and match, and exploring my visual library instead!? Super entertaining and insighful video Ben, thank you!
I am relief that I wasn't alone on this one. Loomis method confuses me on placements, like my brain doesn't want it so I had to improvise. I can't even remember the other name's method but knew they exist. I just look on every stylize artist artwork and things make sense since they exaggerating some features. It's like im reverse engineer their work, one of it was yours. And I do love how you do your drawings.
This was insanely helpful! Also, the thing that helps me power through rough patches of drawing is knowing that literally every artist ever has had days where they felt like they were trash and wanted to quit haha. Then you power through it and it's all worth it.
Commenting to boost this video because this is so good. I can’t believe it’s this guys first video. Everything is on point, the editing, the teaching itself is very digestible. Really good video!
YOU!!! 😲😃 you are hands down one of my favorite insta artists hands down i’m so happy to come across you making full videos, bless ur sweet soul 🙏🏼🙏🏼🙏🏼🙏🏼
I am completely agree with you. Begore, finding your style, you will try different ones. The loomis method explains, however, what to do and what not to do in terms of drawing. In my opinion, it's a must to study as it will help to understand the basic shape of life by itself. The book is faaaar much more than the UA-cam videos using.it.
It's great to explore different techniques and approaches when it comes to drawing! Each method offers its own set of advantages and challenges, and finding what works best for you is a key part of the creative journey. Drawing the head can be complex, but experimenting with various methods can really enhance your skills and understanding of facial anatomy. Keep up the creative exploration! 🎨✨
While the concept of the artist tool belt is not new, the artist tool shed is certainly new to me! Great video! I was plagued by a lot of these issues before as well. The phrase about making a gamble with your drawing hits really deep lol. I really like and appreciate all these tools you talked about, I can definitely see them helping. Especially since I've also run into the issue of using a single rigid structure that limited me from drawing more stylized characters and more styles of characters.
its so freaking good, quality wise and information wise, I have completely stopped watching tutorial videos on youtube as I more draw than just watching tutorials, but this video, it perfectly replicates the quality content you have on instagram, which I already was fan of
Thank you Ben! Helping me with reinforcing the idea that I'm literally building my own tools, world, characters, etc from the ground up but there is a required understanding of subjects to allow you manipulate the idea at hand more fluidly. Awesome vid, your communication of the topic was on point!
Thanks! For this information this helps me grasp WHY shit fell apart when I was doing my studies I will probably get your course later on this summer but this is what I can do to show my thanks 🙏
If you enjoy this kind of stylized stuff, I think you'll like my full deeper dive walkthrough tutorial www.beneblen.com/tutorial
It includes... a 🎥8+ hour real-time walkthrough, 📚 40+ page Field guide, 🗿3D models to study from, 📁PSD files & a Procreate tutorial to reference from
Looking forward to more of your vids!
This is a misunderstanding of Loomis. Loomis himself showed that there was multiple shapes of the skull like it's fitted into a specific shape. You can make the "Circle" more square, more triangle, literally anything. Obviously it's not near as stylized as yours but... still.
you might've forgot to pin this but I'd suggest doing so.
edit: and the video ends a little abruptly. but its a really awesome video, just wanna give a lil feedback cause i really wanna see more :D
Completely ripped from Loomis's "Fun with a pencil". Don't use Loomis my ass.
Ben, do the tutorial videos have subtitles in Portuguese?
That's one high quality video! Great job, Ben!
Hi Sinix, you're a legend sir! I got a whole notebook full of your lessons!
Highly agreed, informative and educational.
Holy shit! Hi there Sinix
Agreed, I had the same mentality as Ben did until watching this video
If sinix himself commented on this then this most be a gem of a video.
Loomis makes it very clear in his book that the ''loomis method'' is supposed to help the student to think about the head as a 3d structure, while also teaching the basics of construction in drawing.
I find it annoying when I come across these UA-cam videos going about the ''loomis method'', as if his book was only that, when in fact, only the first couple pages are about this basic construction. He talks about the importance of thinking about planes and gives us a basic planed head (simpler than the asaro, btw). His book covers anatomy, tone, expressions, rhythm, shape design and common mistakes beginners make.
Loomis deserves A LOT more credit :)
0:46 WOW Ben, it's like you reached into my brain and pulled out my thoughts. Creating stylized art with structural methods is the exact issue I've been struggling with for years.
Same here! Thank you, Ben!
I think there's some place in the books where Loomis himself said his method isn't something to be strictly adhered to, but is just a general guide as a starting point. And his goal in developing and using the method was to just get proportions more consistent for what he considered an idealized appearance. (In "Fun with a Pencil" he does more caricature stuff than the kind of thing he's more traditionally associated with. And it gets into geometric forms as part of shape language just like this video. If you can't find it at a library, there are ways of using the internet.)
Somebody should develop a method of just asking the internet and give it a goofy sounding name so everyone can remember it... like scroogling or something... ;o)
Yeah, I recently read the book, even he skips some parts and some faces don't follow every rule. Weirdly enough, there are some rules that still follow the general proportions, some anime faces have the same proportions of a baby Loomis face.
Yes, I have learned a lot with Fun with a Pencil that uses different lines to construct the head, you choose what you wish but keeping the fact that the head is a rigid structure and that eyes, nose and ears attach to it and move, rotate and go up and down with it. For me these are the basics, then it comes artistic genius and well ... this is another matter. I can draw enough not to insult my viewers and well that's all.
It's good to see the different methods as guides rather than something to strictly adhere to. Overtime you'll develop a process that is uniquely yours. Thanks for the super informative video!
You basically did what a beginner artists does when finding their art style never have I thought doing that with structure of anatomy before I CAN’T BELIEVE IT never came to mind for me thank you for sharing this
This is what I want, direct teaching and no cozy trendy effects just for the "vibe". This excites me to draw. Thank you mate
My pleasure A113!
I watched this because I’ve been having a hard time drawing things in general. Watching this made me realize that I’m not thinking/picturing in my head what I want before I draw, so obviously I’m gonna have a very frustrating session when I don’t know what I want in the first place. So uh thanks for making me realize that. 😅
What I learned as an artist is that, at the start we follow the rule, then we learn to break them to found our own style. Sadly new artists tend to break the rule early and end up making lots of mistake that could be easly avoided.
(Then there is "IA artist" that didn't even started and they already break the rules and end up not even knowing to draw a stick men by themself haha)
Remember that one friend who started drawing at 5 all by himself? That one friend who drew like a pro at 15? Have you ever catched to him? If you have no intention of becoming pro you can just do stuff by yourself out of passion and one day you will wake up good. All those methods and rules... Do not guarantee you anything. If you are overwhelmed by them just drop them and do your thing for a while. If you think about it some of the best "players" in any field of life are those who skip the rules.
@@delanmorstik7619check out Seth Godin book, "the practice" im barely into listening to it and he's got a profound way of observing this phenomenon as being institutionally brainwashed on outcomes-based ideologies and the dynamics behind behaviors like these and how they lead to original innovation thats inherently genuine. It a whole lot more than that but it explains some of the things you observe that seem to happen in a vacuum free of influence but deeper into explaining it as less a savant type of thing. Worth checking out you actually just reminded me to follow up on it lol
@@delanmorstik7619 To a point. Say you are a beginner artist. Using Loomis as an example, say you want to draw and NEVER want to use the Loomis method to draw heads.
Even if you never want to use the Loomis method, that DOES NOT mean studying the Loomis method won't teach you anything that will help you improve your art whether you use the Loomis method or not.
UNDERSTANDING form is ultimately the key that unlocks the pandoras box to drawing. Loomis doesn't just give you a blue print to draw a head. He helps you understand shape, form. The why of his method (which is what this video is getting at). Understanding why Loomis does what he does, is why studying the Loomis method will help you whether you use it or not.
Huston has a 3 hour instructional video of drawing the head on youtube. It's not 3 hours of "make a sail boat shape". It's 3 hours of him explaining and demonstrating why and how it relates to the form and shape of the head. You don't have to use it, to get anything out of the instruction and studying/practicing it for yourself.
Artists with their own styles still follow all the same old rules but they’ve practiced so much they can’t see how basic they are anymore.
No one would ever guess that this is your first UA-cam video! Super informative and entertaining all the way through! The edit was incredible as well! Great job.
WHAT ???
whaaaaat
I also thought there was plenty of them, imagine my surprise. We really need this guy to upload more.
WHAT
Yeah! really surprised me
When I first started drawing faces I drew them intuitively, without much guidelines, and I developed a sense for what kinds of proportions I liked in my drawings.
Recently I've been trying to brush up on my fundamentals by watching videos about the loomis method, etc. and I could really relate to the idea of trying to fit a square peg into a round hole-- the loomis method helped me to visualize heads from different angles, but it was difficult to apply it to my own style.
Thank you so much for all the useful tips! definitely going to check out some of the artists and methods you listed!❤
Thank you sy! Have fun exploring the other artists and methods 😊🙏
i have the biggest respect for youtubers who take time to make a montage ,not just talking , ty very much
I totally agree: For many years I thought that the Loomis method is important for drawing. But I struggled with it, because every head looked the same and not even good. For me it was always a frustrating method that kept me to bounderies and blocked creativity.
The most valuable educational content on a platform on UA-cam not when people teach you how to do a thing, but when people share how all of the other teaching content out there has failed them. There’s nothing more relatable and helpful than somebody saying “I also had trouble with X Y or Z. Here’s how I overcame this, and maybe it will help you too.”
Brilliant video! Instant subscribe and I went to binge the rest of your content-only to realize this is your first proper video. My goodness this is good quality.
I've been learning to illustrate and was so focused on trying to meet the status quo that I never considered to ask "why?". This video not only helped me get unstuck from adhering to "the rules" too closely, but it also showed me a logical way of seeing how the process works. For example, I never quite understood where and when references are typically used. I would find myself copying too early which hindered my creativity from going "how do I want this to look?" and trying too hard to be like everyone else. Now I feel some more freedom to be myself and still learn from others. THANK YOU FOR THIS.
The thing most beginners (including me) forget is that even though you may get advice from others but its not guaranteed to work because your hand movement may not adapt to it. I like to just trust my hand flow, remember anatomy studies and loosely use references. I still like to remember methods for certain things and I try to study anatomy daily but you have to remember, your art is just how you imagine and execute your thoughts on paper.
I love this. The Loomis method never resonated for me for a few reasons as well - mechanical, robotic looking results without understanding the reasons for shapes used. Of course, it's successful for a reason - but my view on this is that it's worth putting in the time to understand the Loomis construction instead of just following it blindly. Once you understand how to analyze what you see to derive shapes from everyday life, it's not a bad idea to use the Loomis method as one of the tools to draw faces, especially with repetition.
As much as I've been drawing my entire life, I like to credit online resources like Marco Bucci's "10 minutes to better art" for helping me to develop my approach.
Ethan Becker is another with fantastic ways to simplify your approach to character design, as well as train your eye to observe like an artist.
I was expecting to binge your videos just to find out this was your "first". Good job, this was one of the best art videos in a long time.
I believe that drawing the head is more about comprehending the structure of the skull than adhering to any specific technique. The methods of Loomis and Huston are beneficial because they aid in visualizing the head more effectively. Ultimately, it all comes down to having a deep understanding of the three-dimensional forms.
I don’t comment often but this video popped up in my recommended feed, ironically at a time where I want to get back into drawing again. I will say, this video singlehandedly make it *click* in my brain. Everything, in every way you described, fully helped me understand what and where I was going wrong :)
I appreciate this video because of how it highlights the importance of integration of knowledge. Part of anyone's art journey is taking all the things you've learned and studied and using them to form your own style. You'll likely develop your own techniques on how to achieve certain looks you're after too. Students, especially brand-new students, need to understand fundamentals and work with basic ideas before advancing to more complex theories and subject matters. This is true for every field be it art or science, etc. A great teacher encourages you to find that sweet spot of respect for others' methods whilst also experimenting and giving yourself permission to do things your own way. Adhering to tried and true methods is great to nail down a solid foundation, but the point of a foundation is that the structure that grows from it has something sturdy to rely on, so it's never meant to be the final form for anyone.
Holy Shit. I've been drawing for 38 years, and I never considered the center line / profile thing. BRILLIANT. Thanks.
Loving the jazzy vibes, and varied visuals. This suits you so much! I'm so impressed by how quickly you've picked up the Youtubing thing. You've become one of my favorite teachers and artists. As always, see you where it all started, the live streams!
Same 😊
The strong and clear visual communication via animated overlays/strokes/3D model interpolations & turnarounds makes this one of the easiest to digest tutorials on a complicated topic. Keep up the excellent work!
You’ve just shown me the answer to a question I didn’t realize I had… I’m a very rigid thinker, so didn’t know how to get what I want with the Loomis method. Thanks!
2:25 You just blew my mind, everything just clicked together, I wondered why a certain artists technique like Loomis would work for one angle but not for the side view of the head, but drawing the side view of the head worked for another method…I did the same thing for artstyles, I would pick and choose bits and pieces of an artists stylization and add it to my own to create my own artstyle…It’s the same thing for drawing techniques! You helped me so much thank you
Personally, I love that centre line for angling the face and getting a sense of direction, and tweaking that direction before all the work of drawing in the features. I find it more helpful than the sides of the face of that purpose ^^
Great video! I see so many make the mistake of thinking art didnt exist before loomis wrote the method down and that loomis is the only way to construct head!
I’ve been struggling with portraits for months now. Following this video helped me tremendously with anatomy issues and help me find a personal style. Thanks so much.
The 3D models and visual demonstrations are INSANELY helpful! And I really appreciate you breaking down your thought processes and explaining the synthesis that contributes to growth. You're 'lifting the curtain' on the mind of an artist, so to speak.
I am a professional artist myself and I still struggle so much with this x.x it is really difficult to unlearn yourself these weird habits they feed you and then reteach yourself something new, but it's so worth it to finally have your own and unique style that you are absolutely in love with. I was taught how to draw realism and it has been a struggle learning how to create the stylized characters I want for my pieces and stories, but this really helps. Thank you so much!!
Ben, I got back into drawing about 6 months ago. It's been a struggle because I constantly compare myself to several other artists, which in turn bums me out, which leads to days without practice, which leads to "why am I so bad?".
Rinse and repeat.
Anyway, I want to say that your videos have been a shining beacon of positively to me and I want to thank you.
You and your videos and encouragement do mean a lot to some of us little people.
:)
I’ve only just found you today, and I massively appreciate how fast-paced your presentation is. It’s all so neurodivergent-friendly, the clearly defined phases and chapters, the flowing motion graphics, and I’m a big fan of the time bar during the cutaway segments and ad reads. Small detail, but they help me understand where to draw my attention.
YES!! it's so ND friendly i appreciate it so much
You are one of the best resources when it comes to learning drawing and painting at nearly any level. I really appreciate your straight forward approach and thoughtful explanations of your thought process. It's refreshing to finally see someone who really breaks down the process.
Honestly man, ive been at the end of my rope with art lately, feeling like none of the methods are working for me, giving me the same head every time give or take, and hearing this is so affirming for me. Thanks man, these kinds of vids help so much.
When you showed the center line being the profile of the face I think my brain exploded. I never would have thought to approach drawing this way. I stopped drawing for a number of years, truly drawing, and I feel guilty and want to hone my skill. I want to become an artist that's confident, as well as find my own style. Your video was really inspiring and makes me want to jump back in and give it a shot.
God bless you and thank you so much!
Where were you two years ago when I was really struggling with this stuff?? 😭
But seriously, I guess it was frustrating that it took so long, but on the other hand, what I love most about art is the discovery. It felt so good when things started finally clicking. And it did, like some things just suddenly clicked, after I had failed time and time again. It's a great feeling.
the thing about copying guidelines and sketching process from timelapses videos is spot on, I just realised I was automaticaly doing that without even thinking why, expecting it to solve all the anatomy problems if I got it exactly like that one artist does in his process.
Oh my god I cannot express enough how much this video has saved me. ~a little tangent~ I haven't been drawing for years and I recently started college doing arts. My professor would go on teaching methods like loomis method and I thought it would improve my art. It didn't. It got worse. I was so fixated into making sure that the dimensions of my character were right and all of my drawings ended up looking the same. After watching this video, DRAWING HAS NEVER FELT SO REAL YET SO RIGHT. This is the first time in years that I've enjoyed drawing so much and I can't thank you enough for this video❤
Haha that's so awesome to hear Ariel! So glad you're getting back to enjoying drawing 🕺
your art, content, edition, production.. everything is on point. thank you for making this content I think the works behind it shows a lot and at the same time the fact that you use your knowledge to teach us is a privilage.
Thanks so much for the kind words! Really means a lot and so glad to hear you enjoyed it 😊🙏
This one video completely unlocked stylized portraits for me, thank you so much for your take on this, incredibly helpful
Great video and explanation. I’ve tried the Reilly method and could never understand it. Michael Hurston ehh ok. loomis was ok as well. I finally got to the point now I have to put my own method in what works for me in my drawings. I love this one artist Loish work and it’s simple how she starts and get the face shape or the eyes and the spacing correct. I started to study the how part as u stated. And once I practiced myself . I’ve noticed a change and saw some of the things I needed to correct in my art. The shape of the face and or gestures and dynamics of whatever I’m drawing were off. Love this vid please do more.❤
Thanks so much! Ahh that’s awesome to hear you’re seeing progress. Loish’s art is amazing and definitely one to learn from 💯. So glad you enjoyed it, and there’s definitely more where this came from!
Finally another artist who struggled with stylizing from these methods, thank you so much for this video to think more flexibly when stylizing
Whoa, this makes so much sense.
Your art has great style, too. I'm especially impressed by all those open mouths. Those always trip me up.
The open mouths are tricky ones!
this is what I've been looking for... It's hard to break those structures that we've been tought. This video really opens my mind
You are the perfect example of “Good artists copy, Greate artists steal “❤
I really don’t often comment on a yt video, but i feel the need to say: this video is very well produced! I really appreciate all the work that has lead to this fluent, informative, visual explanation. Thank you very very much!
Appreciate it Timon! Means a lot 😊🙏
THIS IS THE KIND OF ILLUSTRATION IVE BEEN WAITING TO SEE. Yes! Yours is kind of like a Tex Avery/Chuck Jones style, updated and brought into the 3d style. I love it. Please upload more.
I’ve never found someone who shows their thoughts in 3D and then how they translate it to 2D until you! That’s been my struggle is thinking in 3d but not always knowing the best way to translate that and wow it made so much sense
the way you draw is so expressive, i love it
The production value in this video is kind of off the charts
IVE BEEN STRUGGLING WITH THIS EXACT KIND OF ART FOR YEARS, THANK YOU SO SO SO SO MUCH
My pleasure Muffin!
Haven't even finished the video yet and you've broken down a major roadblock for me in my creative ventures oddly enough you've even helped me with a hurdle in my writing. I've been held back for so long on so many things because I'm trying to force things into a specific style instead of just taking the bits I like and making my own "me" style Thank you
I predict a million subscribers by the end of the year for this guy.
Let's hope you're really good at predictions 🤣 Appreciate you Andy 😊🙏
I'm good at copying things (real ones or drawings someone already made) because I see them as random lines and colors. I suck at understanding 3D shapes, or worse, imagining non existent ones so I can draw stylized... But when you put those 3D models in the video, something clicked for me! I love your style and your way of explaining things.
Ben, this is dramatically underrated. This is the most helpful video i've ever found by far, mostly because every other video talks about the same damn guidelines and proportions, but i prefer much more the way you break down your process for the sketch of a face, it feels much more natural and simple in my opinion. Of course, there isn't just one way to do stuff, but once you know your basic facial structure this is a great way to move forward. Thank you for sharing this video, helped me lots!!
Glad to hear you enjoyed this one Surinnit!
This video is completely relatable. I've tried using the Riley method for every approach in my studies and has held me back eversince. This is a complete game changer. Thanks, Ben.
There are many things in this video that I strongly agree with as a student. My style is very inconsistent and that is because (excluding the fact that I'm inexperienced) I use certain methods or techniques when I draw different things. Loomis method and riley method are so helpful and I love those methods when practicing but at the end of the day, I do understand that those techniques are just for studying. When it comes to character designing, my method is heavily based on shape language.
Also glad that you quoted that line of Kim Jung Gi. Never knew he said that but couldn't agree more. Like my teacher said "try to draw in your head first before actually drawing on paper".
I really like how you broke evereything down. It's difficult sometimes to understand these well-known methods. Like a lot of these methods dont really make snese to me, so its really hard to learn from them. The methods kinda make it more confusing, but seeing you break them down and piece them together helps a lot!
It's cool to see Ben mention the same thing in a sense that Ethan did regarding Kim, that hes not just drawing randomly but in fact is seeing the lines/perspectives etc in his head - on paper.
YOU’RE LITERALLY A HERO! I am so glad that this came on my recommended
What you've hit on here is something most young would-be artists usually miss completely; that their favorite art is just a stylistic choice.
I've lost count of the number of youngsters that have had a fit at their art instructors giving them hell for drawing anime/manga characters. They just don't understand that the teacher is trying to show them how to draw anatomy correctly, and to get the basics down, before they go on to modify or stylise a character. They just want to jump right in and reproduce what they've seen without understanding exactly what has been altered and why.
The fact is, if you want to draw a realistic human head, as you would when drawing someone's portrait, then there is a particular method for doing that.
BUT... if you're working on an animated series, and need to exaggerate facial expressions so that they come across well on a small TV screen, then you've gotta make some adjustments from the normal range of real human feature.
And since the people who teach art at the place you'll go to get an art degree are supposed to be turning out good general artists... they don't teach that stuff, nor want students picking up "bad habits" that only make the instructor's job harder.
( Sorry, but real girls don't have pointy chins, eyes the size of saucers, and mouths you couldn't force a greased grape through. 🤣 )
After a decade of using a circle to construct my heads, I ended up starting to use squares and it helped much more!
I love head, portrait are my favorite things to paint. My favorite part is always doing the eyes! Thanks for showing your experience!
Great video! I never took these methods as 'the' way I have to draw heads because I felt it was too limiting otherwise, but they are valuable for understanding the head (a good artistic simplification of anatomy) and can provide answers to problems that pop up in a piece. When learning I found that asking yourself why something is useful is a lot more important and also motivating than just blindly following 'rules'; it will also save you a lot of time when learning, because you can quickly implement elements into what you already know.
Your drawing technique and learning style are just wonderful! It combines paying attention to structure, but the main thing still remains a gesture. This is exactly what I was looking for! Thank you very much!
Ive always used the loomis till today, but i keep discarding the major shapes i put down first bc they dont look right in the stylised way i wanna go, you opened my eyes, truly!
That whistle method is revolutionary, I've never come across it before!
The best online art teacher for highly stylized characters !
Appreciate the kind words! 😊🙏
This completely opened up a new way of thinking for me! Thanks!
Amazing video. Informative, to the point. So many art videos just vaguely dabble in ideas for drawing rather than affording actual advice. I actually learned something!!! Awesome work.
using the center line as a way to outline the profile was useful for me. It makes it more clear that a simple center line . Altho I use the first line more to orient where I want the face to be in the planning stage
Wow genuinely one of the best videos I’ve seen on UA-cam about drawing. Felt like you were speaking directly to the things I’m struggling with in my drawings. Thank you! Please keep making content
Oh man, that’s awesome to hear, really appreciate the kind words and will do! 😊🙏
If no one has told you lately, you are AMAZING!
Just found this video, subscribed, & have your course in my cart as we speak.
Thank you from the bottom of my big ol' artsy heart!
quite literally this video improved my ability to draw more dynamic faces immediately !! i am very happy i came across this :'D
I’ve been drawing for more than two decades, and I still find this video helpful. ^.-.^
Haha glad to hear it Beuwen! 😊🙏
This videos makes me realize that i still stuck in that one rigid way, like OH MY GOD you totally right! why dont i just mix and match, and exploring my visual library instead!?
Super entertaining and insighful video Ben, thank you!
honestly this is the best head drawing video on you tube, most of the others are just a recipe for frustration and failure
Oh man, you're too kind! Really appreciate the kind words 😊🙏
I am relief that I wasn't alone on this one.
Loomis method confuses me on placements, like my brain doesn't want it so I had to improvise.
I can't even remember the other name's method but knew they exist. I just look on every stylize artist artwork and things make sense since they exaggerating some features. It's like im reverse engineer their work, one of it was yours.
And I do love how you do your drawings.
This was insanely helpful! Also, the thing that helps me power through rough patches of drawing is knowing that literally every artist ever has had days where they felt like they were trash and wanted to quit haha. Then you power through it and it's all worth it.
Thank you for those tips ! The leading line on the edge blew my mind, I never really thought of it but it makes sense now
Bro made one video and tricked me into thinking there were more. Amazing stuff
Haha appreciate you 😊🙏
Good job Ben, this amount of quality in your first video is …. Slightly better then vids done by guys that have been here uploading for 10+ years
the most informative and descriptive video ive watched all year-
Commenting to boost this video because this is so good. I can’t believe it’s this guys first video.
Everything is on point, the editing, the teaching itself is very digestible.
Really good video!
Appreciate you Toky 😊🙏
Best faces help video ever. I keep coming back to reference your wisdom.
What a godsend! Please, don't ever take this video down.
I’ll keep it up! Glad you enjoyed it 😊🙏
YOU!!! 😲😃 you are hands down one of my favorite insta artists hands down i’m so happy to come across you making full videos, bless ur sweet soul 🙏🏼🙏🏼🙏🏼🙏🏼
Appreciate you Jaqueline! 😊🙏
I am completely agree with you.
Begore, finding your style, you will try different ones.
The loomis method explains, however, what to do and what not to do in terms of drawing.
In my opinion, it's a must to study as it will help to understand the basic shape of life by itself.
The book is faaaar much more than the UA-cam videos using.it.
oh wow
i'm impressed of how much this video helped me
and how much you look like a animated character in real life too
It's great to explore different techniques and approaches when it comes to drawing! Each method offers its own set of advantages and challenges, and finding what works best for you is a key part of the creative journey. Drawing the head can be complex, but experimenting with various methods can really enhance your skills and understanding of facial anatomy. Keep up the creative exploration! 🎨✨
While the concept of the artist tool belt is not new, the artist tool shed is certainly new to me! Great video! I was plagued by a lot of these issues before as well. The phrase about making a gamble with your drawing hits really deep lol. I really like and appreciate all these tools you talked about, I can definitely see them helping. Especially since I've also run into the issue of using a single rigid structure that limited me from drawing more stylized characters and more styles of characters.
its so freaking good, quality wise and information wise, I have completely stopped watching tutorial videos on youtube as I more draw than just watching tutorials, but this video, it perfectly replicates the quality content you have on instagram, which I already was fan of
the subject of the video itself was very useful but the editing also makes it both very approachable and enjoyable to watch, great video
This was beyond helpful. It’s like you knew exactly what I’ve been struggling with and explained how to get out of it. Thanks a lot
Good advice! Changing how you think can help you use the information you already have, in a better way.
Thank you Ben! Helping me with reinforcing the idea that I'm literally building my own tools, world, characters, etc from the ground up but there is a required understanding of subjects to allow you manipulate the idea at hand more fluidly. Awesome vid, your communication of the topic was on point!
WE as artist must always keep challenging the famous and traditional methods rather than blindly being a prey of them.
Thanks! For this information this helps me grasp WHY shit fell apart when I was doing my studies I will probably get your course later on this summer but this is what I can do to show my thanks 🙏
This is so helpful, and it opens up my thoughts as to why I've been drawing the way that I do! Thanks so much for this!