Figure Drawing Gesture and Line of Action 2

Question 1

In gesture drawing, what does 'bean' or 'bean shape' construction refer to?

Accepted Answer

Simplified torso shapes linking ribcage and pelvis

Answer

The 'bean' or paired bean shapes simplify the ribcage and pelvis as connected organic masses to block in the torso quickly.

Question 2

What is 'weight and balance' in figure drawing referring to?

Accepted Answer

Whether a figure appears to stand convincingly under gravity

Answer

Weight and balance describes whether a figure's center of gravity sits convincingly over its base of support, making it look grounded.

Question 3

What is the 'plumb line' technique used for in figure drawing?

Accepted Answer

Checking vertical alignment of body parts relative to gravity

Answer

A plumb line is a true vertical reference used to check how body parts align vertically over the figure's base of support.

Question 4

In a running pose, the line of action is typically:

Accepted Answer

Strongly diagonal to suggest forward momentum

Answer

A running figure leans diagonally into the direction of motion, making a strong diagonal the natural line of action.

Question 5

What does 'rhythm line' mean when applied to figure drawing?

Accepted Answer

A flowing line connecting multiple body landmarks to show movement continuity

Answer

A rhythm line is a continuous curving line traced through connected body parts (like hip to knee to ankle) to show how movement flows through the figure.

Figure Drawing Practice Test

Figure Drawing Practice Test

Figure Drawing Gesture and Line of Action 2