Figure size?

[Sharon Knettell]

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.

[Steven Sweeney]

Sharon,

It

[Enzie Shahmiri]

This is one of my favorites John Singer Sargent

[Michael Fournier]

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

[Steven Sweeney]

Michael,

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

[Enzie Shahmiri]

In a way, strictly following rules could mean following someone

[Steven Sweeney]

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

[Enzie Shahmiri]

Ok I measured myself. I come in

[Steven Sweeney]

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.

[Enzie Shahmiri]

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!