How to draw a big cat face? - briefly
To create a big cat face, begin with a light sketch of the basic shapes: an oval for the head and triangles for the ears. Next, add the facial features, including almond-shaped eyes, a small triangular nose, and a wide, curved mouth.
How to draw a big cat face? - in detail
Drawing a big cat face requires a blend of understanding feline anatomy and artistic technique. Begin by gathering your materials: a sketchpad, pencils of varying hardness (2B, 4B, and 6B for shading), an eraser, and a sharpener. Ensure your workspace is well-lit to capture the intricate details of the cat's features.
Start by lightly sketching the basic shape of the cat's head. Use simple geometric forms: an oval for the head, and circles for the eyes and nose. Big cats typically have a broad forehead and a powerful jawline, so emphasize these features. Draw a horizontal line across the oval to indicate the position of the eyes, and a vertical line down the center for symmetry.
Next, refine the facial structure. Big cats have prominent cheekbones and a strong chin. Draw the ears, which should be triangular and pointed, positioned on the top of the head. The eyes should be large and almond-shaped, with a slight tilt towards the outer corners. Sketch the nose, which is typically black and triangular, and the mouth, which should be wide and expressive.
Detailing is crucial for capturing the essence of a big cat. Focus on the eyes, adding depth with shading and highlights. The pupils should be vertical slits, characteristic of big cats. Add whiskers, which should extend from the sides of the mouth and the corners of the eyes. Big cats have robust whiskers, so draw them with confidence.
Shading is essential for bringing the drawing to life. Use your 2B pencil for initial shading, gradually building up the darkness with your 4B and 6B pencils. Pay attention to the light source and how it affects the cat's features. The forehead, cheeks, and chin will have highlights, while the areas under the eyes, nose, and mouth will be in shadow. Blend the shading smoothly to create a realistic texture.
Finally, add the final touches. Enhance the details of the fur, especially around the neck and cheeks, where it tends to be thicker. Big cats often have a ruff of fur around their neck, so include this if drawing a lion or tiger. Use a kneaded eraser to lift out highlights and create a sense of depth.
Practice and patience are key. Studying photographs of big cats can provide valuable reference points. Observe the subtle nuances in their expressions and fur patterns. With time and dedication, you will develop the skills to capture the majestic beauty of a big cat face in your artwork.