Big heads
 

Linda, most of my standing adult figures are based on an 8" head to 9" head on an 8 head format. 8 x 8 = 64" 5 and 1/2' and 9 x 9 = 81" 6' 9". Some of my work is in Newport where the ceilings are from 18' to 25' high. They can make a portrait look downright puny if not scaled properly. My men are usually 6' and my women slightly smaller. I recently did a portrait of a 6' woman, I scaled her down very slightly.

Obviously it is most important to consider where they will be hung and adjust accordingly. However, I never make a head any smaller than 7" and do not do full lengths if there is not enough space. I also consider doing sitting figures if the ceilings are lower.

Every artist has their own sense of scale and that should be their guide.

Sharon,

It

This is one of my favorites John Singer Sargent

Painting full size heads or getting a big head
 

Getting a big head right, that is. :)

I was re-reading an article about Richard Schmid that I had saved and here is a quote from it that I thought might be relevant to this thread:[QUOTE]
To simplify the task of measuring and comparing, Schmid usually works life-size. "That makes measuring easy because you don

Michael,

You'll see Peggy Baumgaertner do the same thing in her portrait videos.

In a way, strictly following rules could mean following someone

[QUOTE]In a way strictly following rules could mean following someone

Ok I measured myself. I come in

Your empirical approach intrigued me, Enzie, so I did the same. Head size 9-1/2 inches, times 8 equals 76 inches (6' 3") -- my EXACT height! "Ideal" would be 6' 6", to elongate some of this middle-age spread.

Steven, you are funny! I have to go and practice what Peggy just taught me regarding color theory.

I seem to have more problems in that area!