What Anatomy in Art-Making and Orchestra Performance/Rehearsel have something in common
One time Instagram showed me a reel of a 3D character artist who said something interesting about applying anatomy in 3D, and I quote:
"Back then I'd study lots of anatomy: knowing all the muscles and such, then grind all the way to the point where I'd show them in my own sculpts, until I realized today that what I was doing is as if I am showing off my anatomy skill than the essence of the sculpture; I would make certain muscle apparent when it is not actually presented in the reference"
As someone who did study anatomy, both human and animals extensively I have something interesting to add as it just clicked something on me:
Maybe, orchestra and anatomy in art-making have something in common!
My experience in orchestra performance at University and Highschool
I play string instrument back then: a bit of guitar and violin most of the time. I was taught early on that your attitude when performing matter a lot, although it sounds subtle.
In an orchestra, or in triad/duet you are basically working as a team; if your instrument is too loud, then the performance would sound too distracting. And maybe when you are performing, you might be confident but you'd have to also see your surrounding, the bigger picture: How does it sound as a whole performance.
For example, when I was in highschool, my peer's violin was too loud so she had to "mute it" a bit so that others can listen to my violin sound too. And yes there is a piece that you can make your instrument sound more muted and subtle
When there is a segment for performing solo, that is where you take off: You can be confident and as loud as you want - no one can stop you, the stage is yours. You are, the spotlight. It reminds me of the scene (without spoiler) from Liz and the Blue Bird movie
There is nothing wrong with solo segment and an orchestra ensemble, even you can mix the two as long as the solo segment doesn't go overboard/too long! There is a time and a place
How does it relate to applying anatomy in art-making
My early experience learning anatomy was as if, I had to prove my own anatomy skill, that I'd have to be so good that people get inspired by it; I'd imagine how I'd make every muscle group apparent anddd.... it looks like an ercorche
Now I realized that, yes knowing all the muscle groups, insertions and all that are important, but here's the bigger question: does that help with the art you want to convey? Does that help the story with what you want to convey?
I'm not saying learning the nitty gritty of anatomy is not important, to me it's more like something to add to your toolbox than having to just apply everything into a piece. It depends on the circumstances
Heck, I would not add every muscle group in a very simplified character - that would be horrifying!
Just like orchestra ensemble and solo performance have in common with anatomy in art making: There is time and place depending on the ideal circumstances.
Just like solo segment, feel free to practice anatomy until the nitty gritty detail, but don't forget to see the full picture as well. You are here, to make art and not to show off and prove your anatomy skill. Well unless your portfolio piece require that, then sure.
Just like orchestra ensemble: How does this make you feel? You don't have to show off every single skill you learned in the past in one illustration. Honestly, that's overwhelming!
I often treat art-making style/way of doing it as another way to do it and there is not really the right way. There are many ways to go to your house: riding a horse? Maybe a dragon? Maybe by foot? The answer is up to you!
I hope you enjoy this bearblog post, and I'll see you on the next one!