Hi, I'm working on the life size design drawing and I've hit a wall. I think I'm happy with the vertical placement of things. But I'm not sure about the horizontal placements and proportions. The arms look especially awkward.
I find that this type of layout makes it hard for me to draw them.... realistically as well. Because the body is not really in any form of tension, or you don't want it to appear to be, it can be really difficult to get it to look right. I tend to draw my hands so they are with the backs facing forward when I'm making my mock up. from the side I illustrate briefly where I want the elbow to fall and use the point of the elbow as a reference. I think on the side view the upper arm is just a little bit short if that is the case. Umm maybe that would change the line of the wrist too so it is easier to determine what you don't like about the hand. I mean when I relax with my hands at my sides, my hands would show a quarter view and neither full front of side view from either of these positions. I think that is where some of the "feeling forced" aspect comes from too. you know, when I am just not seeing things clearly for myself I have a couple really good references that I use. One is Anatomy fo rth eartist which is a book my husband got me. I have a couple pictures on my deviant art, but I also have this other person who has done these amazing anatomy studies. I don't know if it would be helpful but here is the link to their gallery. It is what I looked at when I noticed that the upper arm looked off to me to check it. Perhaps it will help you to see what I'm seeing and correct whatever is bugging you. Jinx-star on deviantart
