[2-3 classes, 80 min each]

Lesson Summary

In this lesson, students will explore the structure of the human face by studying both the skull and facial muscles. Using a portrait photograph of themselves, they will create layered drawings on vellum paper to better understand how underlying anatomical structures influence appearance. Over three sessions, students will draw and shade a skull, illustrate facial muscles, and complete a labeled anatomical overlay. This project combines observation, anatomy, and artistic technique to deepen understanding of the human form.

Lesson Objectives

• Explore the anatomical structure of the human skull and facial muscles.

• Develop observational drawing and shading skills.

• Understand how underlying bone and muscle structures influence facial appearance.

• Create a layered anatomical overlay using vellum paper.

Brainstorm Discussion

1. What features of your face do you think are influenced most by your skull structure?

2. Why might artists benefit from studying what lies beneath the skin?

3. What differences do you notice between a skull and a living face?

4. How can understanding the underlying skeleton and facial planes help us better understand the structure of the face?

What to Do

Part 1: Skull Drawing

• Begin by reviewing the lesson and observing reference images of the human skull.

• Place vellum paper over your printed portrait photograph.

• Using an HB pencil, carefully draw the skull aligned with your facial proportions.

• Focus on major structures such as the eye sockets, nasal cavity, and jaw.

• Add shading to create depth and form.

• Label the key parts of the skull.

Part 2: Facial Planes

• Place a new sheet of vellum paper over your portrait.

• Using reference images, illustrate the major facial planes

• Pay attention to the different planes of the face and how they connect to different areas.

Part 3: Final Composition

• Review and refine both your skull and facial plane drawings.

• Ensure labels are clear and neatly presented.

• Layer the vellum sheets over your portrait to create a complete anatomical overlay.

• Make any final adjustments to improve clarity, alignment, and presentation.

• Ensure all the layers are firmly taped together. 

Terminology

Skull — The bone structure that forms the head and supports the face.

Facial Muscles — Muscles beneath the skin that control facial expressions.

Anatomy — The study of the structure of living organisms.

Overlay — A layer placed over another image to add additional information or detail.

Vellum Paper — A semi-transparent paper used for layering drawings.

Shading — A technique used to create the illusion of depth and form using light and dark values.