Anatomy Landmarks for 3D Artists
Bony points and muscle groups that guide a sculpt
Also known as: Anatomy for artists · Bony landmarks · Human proportions sculpt · Anatomy reference sculpting · Eight heads proportion · Surface anatomy
Definition
Anatomy landmarks are the bony points and large muscle groups that show on the surface of the body, and that artists use to place forms correctly. Examples are the collarbones, the points of the shoulder and hip, the knee and elbow, the ribcage and the pelvis, and they stay visible in most poses. Human proportions are often taught as about seven and a half to eight heads tall, and knowing these landmarks helps to keep a character believable, even when the style is exaggerated.
In production
Study the skeleton first, then the big muscle groups, and check each landmark against reference photos and anatomy models. Start a sculpt with the skeleton's proportions and landmarks before adding muscles, and keep them consistent when posing. Stylized characters simplify and exaggerate but still follow underlying structure. Many artists use an anatomy base mesh or reference in PureRef beside the sculpt.
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See also
Base Mesh
Simple model used as the start of a sculpt or model
Primary, Secondary and Tertiary Forms
Working from big shapes to small details
Stylized Proportions
Exaggerated body and face ratios in stylized characters
Character Face Looks Off
Proportions and symmetry problems in a face sculpt
Character Topology
Edge flow that supports deformation
Model Sheet and Turnaround
Orthographic views of a character or prop