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The goal of studying from life is to get the fundamentals of the source material and translate it into a more dynamic and believable design. Studying from life can be challenging, but it helps you understand the skeletal structure and basic forms of anatomy to make sense of what is being observed. Paying attention to the subtlety of natural movements and energy can make creatures more dynamic and believable. In this lesson, David Colman shows you how to capture this dynamic energy with a series of sketches done from video footage of apes.

Tip: When you try this exercise don't worry about making a pretty drawing, focus on learning and understanding the natural movements and poses of the source material. 

Watch the Ape Reference Videos Below!

Reference Video 1
Reference Video 2
Reference Video 3
Reference Video 4
Reference Video 5