Question hub
What is contrapposto?
The answer
Contrapposto is a pose in which the weight rests mainly on one leg, so the shoulders and hips tilt in opposite directions. The Italian term means counterpoise, and the stance is familiar from classical sculpture. It gives a standing figure balance and a relaxed look, and it is one of the quickest ways to avoid a stiff, symmetrical drawing. To check it, draw one short line across the shoulders and another across the hips, and see how they differ. The supporting leg sits roughly under the head.