Plate 2. The All Important Cross on the Ball I Loomis Method

In this video, you’ll learn the foundation of the Loomis Method by understanding the head as a simple 3D sphere. Instead of memorizing facial features, the lesson focuses on building the head using a basic sphere, using a center cross to control direction and rotation, and understanding how the head turns in front, half, and three‑quarter views. This approach helps beginners stop guessing and start drawing heads with confidence from any angle. The video is the first lesson in a complete Loomis Method series designed for beginners and self‑taught artists. It covers building the head with a simple spherical form, the importance of the center cross for head rotation, drawing heads in different angles without getting lost, and a clear 3‑D way to think about head construction. The lesson is aimed at beginners learning portrait drawing, artists struggling with head proportions, and anyone who wants to understand the Loomis Method step by step. Upcoming lessons will cover cutting the sphere and building the Loomis head, head proportions, drawing facial features, understanding head tilt and perspective, and moving from Loomis construction to realistic portraits. Materials used include pencil, paper, and a clay sphere for visual explanation.