The human figure is considered one of the most challenging and most satisfying subjects an artist can tackle. No other single subject offers as much opportunity for the artist to study grace, strength, and the power of emotion. And it's no more difficult to learn to capture the human form than it is to learn to capture other subjects. Of course, to draw the figure well, you will have to work at your craft, but we believe you can begin to see satisfying results from the start. Figure drawing is a learnable skill, and it can be easier than you think, especially if your earlier efforts were frustrating.

The key to successfully drawing the human form is to practice one concept at a time, as well as developing an understanding of the form and structure of the human body. This book will help you explore the human form and learn the rules that helped the "masters" produce figure drawings of unforgettable strength and beauty.

We have assembled this book from some of the best teaching available on figure drawing. In the first chapter you will find useful information on materials and basic techniques. The remaining chapters teach the basic principles of rendering the form on paper, capturing gesture, drawing from models, utilizing the rules of proportion, and drawing details, such as hands and facial features. The only additional ingredient you will need is practice and the knowledge that interest and effort overcome any lack of that elusive quality we call "talent."