Please check my thumbnail value sketch -- does it look correct?

Question

Does this rough motorcycle drawing "read" correctly?

I rarely do cars or motorcycles, but I am preparing to do a watercolor of something like this sketch, and I was wondering if the thumbnail sketch looks proportional. If not, what needs to be changed?

This is really meant to be a value study, with no detail. But if you see anything, shading, angles, etc. that does not "read" somewhat realistic, or that is confusing or detracting, please be specific.

One thing I am looking for is whether the shadows are correct, and where they should be in relation to the strong light/sunshine off the rider's left shoulder. The reason this is not so obvious is that I am combining two images. (The rider in the photo was actually climbing out onto a fallen tree over a glacial river . . . not riding a motorcycle!)

http://i56.photobucket.com/albums/g172/lefthandedly/100_2201.jpg

Answer 1

Your perspective is a bit of. Just check for far down the leg is in comparison with the wheel. Also looking over your shoulder is harder than it looks in your sketch.

Other that that: Great sketch.

Answer 2

This is a fine sketch. To perfect it you need to accentuate the shadows under the arms, the left side of the back, and the shadowed side of the face. To contrast that, complete highlighting the hair, face, tops of arms, back of seat, and back left side of the back tire. There should be a middle value on the exhaust pipes -right now you have only highlights and lowlights.

I must say again: this is a fine sketch.

Answer 3

I am not an expert, but to me the back part of the motorcycle doesn't "feel" right, if you know what I mean. Also, if that is a human face, the turn of the head seems unnatural. I really like the shoulder line.

Answer 4

I agree with HonetYit's fine except the turn of his head, I just trIed and nearly ricked my neck. LOL