How to Outline the Body

Outlining a body is actually a very simple process.

Body outlines have become a distinct symbol of crime and homicide. As such, the body outline has been used in works by contemporary artists to critique the culture that produces that crime. While its symbolism may be complex, actually creating the body outline is a very simple process.

Things You'll Need

• Banner paper
• Marking utensils, such as markers, crayons, pens, etc.

Instructions

1. Choose a friend to use as the basis for your body outline.

2. Cut a piece of banner paper about 6 inches longer than your friend's height.

3. Have your friend lay down on the cut sheet of banner paper in the pose you would like to capture. For example, with legs splayed or arms held above his head.

4. Choose a writing utensil. Begin to trace the outline of your friend's body, using straight or slightly curved lines. You may even choose to draw sharp angles for emphasis, similar to the picture shown above.

5. Once you have traced the entirety of your friend's body, have her stand up from the banner paper. Make any adjustments to the body outline as you see fit.

Tips & Warnings

• If you are trying to re-create a crime scene, you can repeat the process having a friend lie down on pavement and using chalk to outline his body.

References

• Marchese, John, "Chalk Body Outlines: Grisly, Yes, but Chic"