A planar head is a style of representation that breaks down the basic planes that create the three-dimensional form of the head and represents them in a more simplified style. More planar shapes will create a more life-like form. Less planar shapes will create a more geometric, blocky-looking head. The plaster cast that you see here was
found on this Flickr page and is a popular type found in many art departments. There are many variations but I like this one as I've worked with it quite a bit at the schools where I have taught. It strikes a nice balance of simplicity and complexity, allowing students to more easily grasp the structures of the head and neck and the way light falls upon these forms.
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