For those who are interested in investing in the new, gray plastic version of the Planes of the Head, here is my experience. I purchased one from Karen Knapp. Linda Brandon used the white, plaster version in her Shemer Art Center class and all of her students became quickly dependent on it. Lighting in that studio came from a skylight directly above the model which, of course, changed rapidly during the afternoon session. Linda's Planes of the Head sat in front of the model each day and helped all of us to see the model's facial planes clearly.
After contacting Karen Knapp re: the purchase of the plastic version, Karen responded quickly with photos of the head via email. She required a personal check, so the turn-around time was a little longer than it would have been with a credit card. Of course, I wanted it YESTERDAY!
I cannot say enough good things about the included booklet. Before receiving it, I couldn't imagine why 34 pages would be needed on this subject. NOW, I wouldn't part with the booklet for anything and guard it jealously. Diagrams of head planes are displayed at every angle. Individual lessons on each feature viewed at various angles are included. Everything in the booklet is helpful. It could be a basic text for all classes that include the human head.
The color of the head disappointed me at first, but as it is about a 5 value, it actually works quite well. In my very humble opinion, this particular version of the Planes of the Head is a valuable addition to any artist's studio AND it is unbreakable!
