How to Draw the Head Using Loomis, Bridgman, and Reilly (All in One Method)

What if you could combine the three most powerful head drawing methods—Loomis, Bridgman, and Reilly—into one simple approach?

In this beginner-friendly portrait tutorial, I’ll show you how to do just that. We’ll start with the Loomis sphere, build the structure with Bridgman’s forms, and add flow using Reilly rhythms. This is one of the most effective ways to train your eye and build confidence when sketching the head.

Whether you’re just learning or want to break through a plateau, this video will give you tools you can use right away.

✏️ You’ll learn:
• How to map the head with structure and rhythm
• How to simplify complex features like the nose, eyes, and hair
• Why reference matters, and how to use it effectively
• The power of drawing quick 10-minute portraits for growth

00:00 – Start with the Loomis sphere
00:14 – Mapping the brow line and temple plane
00:34 – Adding center line and jaw shape
01:19 – Using thirds to measure face proportions
02:10 – Constructing the nose with simple shapes
02:54 – Loose sketching tips for short poses
03:23 – Placing the mouth with surface lines
04:05 – Sketching the mouth and lips
04:37 – Why fast sketches improve your instincts
05:02 – Using the mustache for proportion
05:21 – Eyelids and angles of the eyes
05:33 – Fixing squeezed proportions mid-drawing
05:52 – Dropping in pupils and structure
06:05 – Why using guidelines matters (even for pros!)
06:27 – Reference vs. memory drawing
07:05 – Observing wrinkles and character
07:30 – Drawing the bandana to show head form
08:08 – Using vertical alignment to place features
08:43 – Slope and direction of the hairline
09:07 – Drawing hair with S-curves, C-curves, and straights
10:00 – Finishing touches and final shapes
10:26 – Wrap-up and encouragement

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My name is Kurt Aspland and I am a dad who draws. Let's get you to overcome the envy, frustration and difficultly associated with creating art, by practicing everyday. YOU CAN DO THIS!

► About me
Kurt Aspland is a graduate of the Art Center College of Design in Pasadena, California and has been drawing, painting and teaching for well over 30 years. He has been published in multiple magazines including The Disney Magazine, Forbes, The Wall Street Journal and Dallas Morning News to name a few. He has had multiple interviews and articles written about his work in both the United States and International press as well. He has taught at Drexel University in Philadelphia and the Pennsylvania School of Art and Design.

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