[2023] 31/100 #meds100headschallenge

Diving into the '100 Heads Challenge' has been an incredible journey of growth, and this particular piece, my 31st out of 100, really pushed my boundaries in the best way. When I started the #MEDS100HEADS challenge, I knew it would test my skills, but I didn't anticipate how much I'd learn about my own artistic process and how to truly experiment. Getting to '31/100' feels like a significant milestone, and it's pieces like this one that make all the effort worthwhile. One of the biggest hurdles I decided to tackle here was drawing a head from a 'from below' angle. This perspective is notoriously tricky because it distorts familiar features and requires a deep understanding of facial anatomy and foreshortening. My usual approach is often eye-level or slightly above, so intentionally choosing this challenging view forced me to slow down, really observe, and break down the head into simpler forms. I found it helpful to think about the skull's structure from the chin up, focusing on how the jawline, neck, and base of the nose would appear. If you're struggling with unusual angles, my best advice is to use plenty of references and don't be afraid to exaggerate the forms at first, then refine them. It’s all about training your eye to see beyond the usual. Beyond the angle, I also experimented heavily with stylized colors to depict light and shadow. Instead of traditional shading, I opted for bold, contrasting hues to define the planes of the face and create a dramatic mood. This wasn’t just about aesthetics; it was about understanding how light interacts with form without relying on conventional rendering. For instance, using a cool blue for the shadows under the chin, even when the light source wasn't overtly warm, allowed me to create depth and a certain artistic flair. I believe that pushing past realistic color choices can unlock new ways to express emotion and dimension in your art. Don't be afraid to grab unusual color palettes and see what magic happens! The '100 Heads Challenge' isn't just about drawing heads; it's about building consistency, overcoming creative blocks, and expanding your artistic vocabulary. For anyone considering taking on such a long-term project, my biggest tip is to embrace every drawing as a learning opportunity, not just a finished product. Some days, your drawings will feel like masterpieces, and other days, they'll be purely for practice. Both are equally valuable. Set small, achievable goals, celebrate your progress (like reaching '31/100'!), and connect with other artists doing similar challenges. The community aspect, often found through hashtags like #MEDS100HEADS, provides immense motivation and feedback. This challenge has taught me that true artistic growth comes from stepping outside your comfort zone. Whether it’s attempting a difficult angle or playing with unconventional colors, each experiment adds another tool to your artistic toolkit. I'm genuinely excited to see what new discoveries the remaining drawings in this challenge bring, and I hope my journey inspires you to pick up your pen and start your own artistic adventure!