Another sketch: chica w/gun

[Mr. Personality]

I'm trying to focus on developing a couple of characters. Once I'm happy with the concepts I plan on drawing them in different situations and environments. It's all a big anatomy and perspective exercise for me.

Anyway, here's the alpha female of my little gang. It's still early in her development.

As always, comments and critique welcome. I'm trying to learn from you guys. Thanks.

http://www.alexrichburg.com/drawings/chica.jpg

[daniela]

It's a good start, but why the heck did you draw her left leg like that? I know you were probably going for a dynamic pose, but what you ended up with someone in a very unrealistic position. That's just my opinion though. If you could tell us what you were going for, maybe someone here can help you with it. Changing the position just a little may work. Other than what I have already mentioned, the rest of the sketch looks good to me. Fix up that leg and you will have one awesome sketch!

[Mr. Personality]

I just got tired of standing poses. I usually start with the torso, draw in legs, then the arms & head. Originally, I imagined the figure in mid air, but that went away as the drawing developed.

I'm thinking about putting the left leg out behind her so as to make her look like she's striding forward w/purpose. I'll play with it some more. Thanks for the input.

[Wetterschneider]

Consider starting with a single flowing line that moves from the character's head, down the torso, then down the weight supporting leg. It'll will add movement and minimize the pieced together feeling of a "torso first, then add legs, then add arms" image.

Keep up the good work though - it just takes time.

S

[Mr. Personality]

OK. Here's a quick revision. I used levels and curves after the scan to clean up the clutter on the page. That and a picture from the next page was showing through.

I left the old leg in for easy comparison

Wetterschneider: I have used the "action line" method of figure drawing, but usually when I've got a pose/figure in mind. When I'm just doodling and really have no idea how the pose will evolve I use Burne Hogarth's method of drawing the torso first. (Dynamic Figure Drawing)

You're right though, there's much room for improvement and thanks for the tip. That's why I'm so glad I found this place!

Anyway, here's the stride.

http://www.alexrichburg.com/drawings/chica2.jpg

[daniela]

That's much better, even though she looks like she's dancing in a ballet now (look up some pics and you will see what I mean). You're on the right track. Just remember, you can't please everyone and the only one who has to be happy with this sketch is you.:)

[IPushCarts4Living]

I have to agree with previous posts in that the pose is just awkward and bizarre. As far as craftsmanship is concerned the sketch looks good. But shes aiming a big ass gun and most people would associate that with someone who means business. At the same time however shes striking a pose with the "arent i so sexy" arm back fingers spread look. Good work but the pose is lacking.

[Mr. Personality]

Yeah, I agree. It doesn't make much sense. Her expression doesn't match what's going on either. Thanks for all the comments. I'll work on getting a more cohesive pic of her on paper.