The Loomis method is a drawing technique by Andrew Loomis that uses a geometric construction with a sphere and grid lines to accurately represent the human head from any angle, establishing a framework for placing facial features like eyes, nose, and mouth according to the "rule of thirds" for correct proportions.
It begins by drawing a sphere for the cranium, cutting off its sides to represent the flattened sides of the skull, and then adding horizontal and vertical crosshairs to mark the brow line, the middle of the face, and the other proportions.
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William Andrew Loomis (15 June 1892 – 25 May 1959) was an American illustrator, writer, and art instructor. His commercial work was featured prominently in advertising and magazines.
However, Loomis is best known as the writer of a series of instructional art books printed throughout the 20th century and also as the inventor of the "Loomis method."
Long after his death, Loomis's realistic style has continued to influence popular artists.
