Tessellated images are stunning and often appear to be moving.
The word "tessellation" conjures different ideas in the mind of different people. Some people imagine geometric designs, while others envision more artistic patterns. While both of these ideas are correct, it is important to note that whether a tessellation is comprised of geometrical elements or other types of shapes, it must be a pattern that is stacked without spaces between designs, and completely repetitive. This type of art is used to create unique and visually stunning pieces. Animals have often been used as subjects for tessellation projects. Lions make regal and interesting patterns; however, this design is quite complicated to master.
Instructions
Sketching the Lion
1. Draw the first lion. This lion should be placed 1 inch from the top of the page, and 2 inches from the left side. The completed lion should measure 2 inches from the tip of the tail to the bottom of its back feet, and 2 inches from the top of its head to the bottom of its front two feet, as well as 2 inches across.
2. Draw the lion's back leg. It should measure 3/4 inches and slant slightly backwards. Add another leg a little to the right of the first one. The inside of this leg needs to curve upwards into an arch. The arch should measure 1 inch across and descend downwards to create one of the lion's front legs. Add another front leg to the right of the first one. Draw the lion's feet. These should be slightly round with a flat bottom. Note that every lion's feet will eventually be located on the top of another lion's back.
3. Extend the line of the very front leg upwards to create the lion's mane and face. The tessellated lion mane and head will fill up the cavity between the legs on the other lions, so closely examine the arch between the first lion's legs. Use it as a guide for the height and breadth of the lion's head.
4. Draw the lion's back. The back of the lion should be flat and long enough so that the surrounding lion's feet fit snugly on it. This area should measure approximately 1 inch. Extend the back so that there is a small tail. The end of the tail should be diamond-shaped. The hairy part of the lion's tail will be right up against the face of the lion beside it.
5. Sketch more lions; each individual lion should be similar in appearance to the one next to it. The exact shape and size must be replicated horizontally and vertically across the page. Use a clear ruler to make sure that the lions remain straight.
6. Add details. The lion's face should be comprised of a square jaw and a rounded edge that leads to his ear. His ear should be small and round. Don't forget that this is a side view. All facial details must be drawn in profile. Use a cross-hatching technique to color the mane. Remember that a lion's mane cascades across his shoulder area and descends to the top of his legs. Draw the lion's toes. Use small connected arches to represent his toes.
