How to Draw Figures from Memory

Introduction

This tutorial focuses on three effective visual memory exercises designed to enhance your figure drawing skills. By practicing these methods, you can improve your ability to draw figures from memory, understand forms better, and develop your imagination in figure design. Regular practice is essential for mastering these techniques.

Step 1: Draw from Memory

1. Choose a Pose

   • Find a reference image of a pose you want to draw.
   • Observe the details and forms carefully.

2. Memorize the Pose

   • Spend a few minutes analyzing the pose.
   • Focus on the shapes, proportions, and angles.

3. Put Away the Reference

   • Remove the reference image from sight to challenge your memory.

4. Draw from Memory

   • Attempt to recreate the pose on paper using only your memory.
   • Don't worry about perfection; focus on capturing the essence of the pose.

Step 2: Draw a Different Angle

1. Revisit the Original Pose

   • Look at the reference image again to refresh your memory.

2. Draw the Pose

   • Create a drawing of the pose from the reference to understand it better.

3. Put Away the Reference Again

   • Remove the reference image from view once more.

4. Redraw the Pose from a Different Angle

   • Challenge yourself to draw the same pose but from a different viewpoint.
   • This helps you understand spatial relationships and perspective.

Step 3: Change Angle and Proportions

1. Study the Original Pose

   • Spend time looking at the reference image again and understand the proportions.

2. Draw the Pose

   • Create a drawing based on the reference to ensure you grasp the structure.

3. Alter the Angle and Proportions

   • Now, redraw the figure but change the angle even more dramatically.
   • Experiment with altering the proportions, such as making limbs longer or shorter.

4. Observe and Adjust

   • Pay attention to how the changes affect the overall look of the figure.
   • This exercise enhances your adaptability in figure drawing.

Conclusion

By following these three exercises—drawing from memory, changing angles, and altering proportions—you will significantly improve your figure drawing skills. Regular practice of these techniques can help develop your visual memory and confidence in drawing figures from imagination. Consider integrating these exercises into your routine for continued growth in your artistic abilities.