Drawing people from behind can be a challenge for artists of all levels. It requires an understanding of the figure’s anatomy, proportions, and perspective. In this step-by-step guide, we will show you how to draw someone from behind using simple techniques and tools. Whether you’re a beginner or experienced artist, this guide will help you hone your skills and improve your artwork.
Step 1: Understanding the Body’s Anatomy
In order to create a believable drawing of someone from behind, it’s important to have an understanding of the human body’s anatomy. The back consists of several key muscles and bones that are essential to creating a realistic figure. Start by drawing the spine, which runs down the center of the back. This will serve as the foundation for the rest of the drawing.
Next, add the shoulder blades, which are located on either side of the spine. These should be positioned slightly below the neck and angled outward. Be sure to pay attention to the proportions of the figure as a whole. The back should be wider at the top and taper down towards the waist.
Step 2: Adding the Arms and Hands
Once you have the basic shape of the back, it’s time to add the arms and hands. When drawing someone from behind, the arms will be visible on either side of the body. Start by sketching the shoulder joints where the arms meet the shoulders.
From there, you can add the upper arms, which should be positioned at a slight angle to the body. The lower arms should be thinner and taper slightly towards the wrists. Pay attention to the position of the hands, which can be tricky to draw from behind. Generally, the hands should be positioned near the hips or in the pockets.
Step 3: Creating the Legs and Feet
The legs and feet are the final pieces to the puzzle when drawing someone from behind. Start by drawing the lower back and the buttocks, which will serve as the foundation for the legs. The legs should be positioned slightly apart, with the feet closer together.
When drawing the legs, pay attention to the knees and ankles, which can be challenging to get right. The feet should be positioned at a slight angle and should be proportionate to the rest of the body. Remember to study the reference you’re using to get realistic proportions.
Step 4: Adding Details and Shading
Now that you have the basic structure of the figure, it’s time to add some finer details and shading. Add the hair and any clothing details, such as pockets or seams. Be sure to use a light touch when adding these details so as not to overwhelm the drawing.
Shading is another essential element of drawing someone from behind. Pay attention to the direction of the light source and use shading to create depth and dimension. Begin shading the areas that receive less light, such as the underside of the arms and legs, and gradually build up to the areas that receive more light, such as the back and shoulders.
Step 5: Practice, Practice, Practice
As with any skill, drawing takes practice. Don’t be discouraged if your first few attempts at drawing someone from behind don’t turn out as you hoped. Keep practicing and experimenting with new techniques until you find what works for you. It’s also helpful to study the work of other artists and incorporate their techniques into your own work.
Conclusion
Drawing someone from behind can be a challenge, but by following these steps and practicing often, anyone can improve their skills. Remember to start with the basic structure of the body, add details and shading, and most importantly, keep practicing. With time and dedication, you’ll be able to create stunning drawings of people from any angle.
Common Questions About Drawing Someone from Behind
- How do I draw the proportions of someone from behind? When drawing someone from behind, be sure to pay attention to the proportions of the figure as a whole. The back should be wider at the top and taper down towards the waist. You can use reference pictures to get realistic proportions.
- How do I draw hands from behind? When drawing hands from behind, they should be positioned near the hips or in the pockets. Draw the general shape of the hand and pay attention to the position and size of the fingers.
- What is the hardest part of drawing someone from behind? The arms and hands can be the most difficult part of drawing someone from behind. Pay attention to the position of the shoulder joints and the angle of the arms. Take your time and use reference pictures as a guide.
References
Huey, S. (2019). How to Draw People: A Step-by-Step Guide for Beginners with 10 Projects. Walter Foster Publishing.
Parks, T. (2017). Figure Drawing: A Complete Guide. North Light Books.