Drawing Courses

Loomis Method vs. Reilly Method for Portrait Drawing

09 Dec

If you’re looking for a way to draw portraits that will make people say “Wow, that looks just like them!”, you might want to consider the Loomis Method or the Reilly Method. These are two of the most popular methods for portrait drawing, and they have some similarities and differences. Let’s take a look at what they are and how they stack up against each other:

Loomis Method:

The Loomis Method is all about using shapes and guidelines to construct the head and face. You start with a sphere, then add a cylinder for the jaw, then divide the head into sections to place the features. It’s like building a Lego head, but with more math. Key features: –

  • The Loomis method focuses on constructing the head and face using geometric shapes and guidelines.
  • It breaks down the head into simplified forms such as spheres and cylinders.
  • Loomis emphasizes understanding and applying proportions, using guidelines to place features in relation to each other.
  • There is a strong emphasis on symmetry and balance in facial features.
  • Loomis often encourages artists to aim for an idealized representation of the subject, capturing a universally attractive look.
  • The method is known for its simplicity, making it accessible for both beginners and experienced artists.

Benefits:

    • Provides a solid foundation for understanding facial anatomy.
    • Helps achieve accurate proportions and placement of features.
    • Relatively easy to learn and apply.

Drawbacks:

      • Can result in stiff and lifeless portraits if not used in conjunction with other methods.
      • May not be suitable for capturing the subtle nuances of a person’s likeness.

Reilly Method:

The Reilly Method is all about capturing the gesture and rhythm of the head and figure. You use curved lines to sketch the flow and movement of the subject, then add details and shading later. It’s like drawing with a dance partner, but with more flair. Key features: –

  • The Reilly method places a significant emphasis on capturing the gesture and flow of the head and figure.
  • Artists are encouraged to observe and convey the rhythm and movement of the subject.
  • Unlike the Loomis method, the Reilly method embraces asymmetry in features, acknowledging that faces and figures are not perfectly symmetrical.
  • Reilly often stressed the importance of closely observing the subject, understanding the subtle nuances of light and shadow.
  • The Reilly method tends to result in a more naturalistic and lifelike representation of the subject, capturing the individuality of the model.

Benefits:

    • Helps develop a strong sense of light and form.
    • Creates a more dynamic and engaging portrait.
    • Allows for greater individuality and expression.

Drawbacks:

    • Requires a strong understanding of light and shadow.
    • Can be more challenging to master than the Loomis Method.
    • May not be as effective for beginners.

So, which method should you use? Well, that depends on your goals and preferences. If you want to draw portraits that are simple and idealized, go for the Loomis Method. If you want to draw portraits that are expressive and realistic, go for the Reilly Method. Or better yet, why not combine both methods? That way, you can get the best of both worlds!

Ultimately, the best method for you will depend on your individual learning style and artistic goals. If you’re a beginner, the Loomis Method is a great place to start. It will help you develop a strong understanding of facial anatomy and proportions, which will serve you well as you progress in your drawing skills.

Once you’ve mastered the basics of the Loomis Method, you can then move on to the Reilly Method to learn how to use light and shadow to create more realistic and expressive portraits.

Here are some additional resources that you may find helpful:

I hope this information helps!

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