Answer

Tan replies

Drawing a foreshortened human figure relies on the same basic principles as drawing boxes in perspective. You can start off by drawing the artist mannequin from different angles, because the form of a mannequin is simplified.

A strong grasp of anatomy is needed to realistically depict a human in a top-down view from scratch, although photo references can help. In this example, however, I’m constructing a figure from scratch, using a more anime style, which is conducive to exaggerated foreshortening.

I start off by browsing images for inspiration, and settle on the idea of a character looking up from a staircase, due to its potential visual interest. I then draft out the environment in perspective and rough out a character in that environment.

For a more accurate figure drawing, I’d measure out the proportions and divide the perspective guide for the figure accordingly. But I chose not to do so for this one, to save time. I go over the rough with a cleaner sketch and then render the scene in full.

I often use the Liquify tool and repaint bits and pieces of the character halfway through.