STRUCTURAL FIGURE SCULPTING — LEVEL 1: THE TORSO

Build the Engine of the Figure.

Every powerful figure begins with the torso.

Not the arms.
Not the head.
Not the details.

The torso is the structural core — the engine that controls balance, compression, stretch, and movement.

If the torso is weak, everything built on top of it collapses.

Level 1 teaches you how to construct it properly.

The Method You’ll Learn

This course introduces the first stage of the Structural Figure Framework:

1. Mass Architecture

Learn to organize the rib cage and pelvis as interlocking primary forms using Sterometric concepts.
No anatomy overload — just clear, buildable volume.

2. Structural Mechanics

Understand how the spine drives compression, counter-rotation, and rhythm.
See how balance is engineered — not guessed.

3. The Walnut Method (AKA Convexity)

Convexity of form creates life.  Concavity signifies death.  You'll learn Ryan's innovative new method of creating a robust surface grounded in anatomy but without losing structural power.

4. Surface Resolution

Finish with clarity — not softness.  This is not about copying a torso.  It’s about understanding how one is built.

Training in ZBrush,

Grounded in Classical Principles

What You’ll Walk Away With

✔️ A repeatable torso construction system
✔️ Clear proportional landmarks
✔️ Control over mass and rhythm
✔️ Structural confidence before anatomy detail
✔️ A foundation for all future figure work

Why Start Here?

Because everything else depends on it.

Contrapposto.
Seated figures.
Dynamic poses.

They all succeed or fail at the torso.

Level 1 builds the base that supports the entire Structural Figure Sculpting ladder.

I was part of the original team behind ZBrush, where I created tools like the Rake brush and built it's digital Anatomy Figure.

Over the past 20 years, I’ve trained thousands of artists—at studios like ILM, Blizzard, and EA Shanghai—helping them bridge the gap between technical skill and artistic mastery.

Now, I'm thrilled to welcome you to my newest project: a space dedicated to the deeper, more artistic side of our craft. Whether you're just starting or leveling up, I’m here to help you see, feel, and sculpt like an artist.