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Forensic Art: Drawing to Depict the Deceased for Identification

with Karen T. Taylor

September 9-13, 2024 Tuition $1050

Craniofacial reconstruction drawing
2D craniofacial reconstruction based on skull photo

This drawing workshop provides an intensive five days of advanced 2D techniques to facilitate identification of unknown deceased persons. Two primary methods will be covered: postmortem depiction based on deceased facial photos and 2D craniofacial reconstruction based on skull photos. The first part of the workshop addresses postmortem changes in physical remains as they effect an artist’s ability to accurately depict the face. The remainder of the week will be devoted to facial reconstruction drawing from the skull. Each class exercise is designed to simulate actual case experience in a compressed time frame. Cases will vary regarding cause and manner of death and there will be individuals of various ancestries and ages. Life photos of the deceased person will be seen upon completion of each drawing which is the most significant learning opportunity for this experience-based work. This unique forensic art training is unavailable in any other drawing course. The FACTS venue is one of the world’s premier locations for taphonomic research and skeletal assessment and identification.

Topics

facial reproduction

-Taphonomic changes that affect the face
-Drawing from morgue or crime scene photos
-Skull photography tips for 2D reconstruction
-Morphological relationships between skull and face

Details

Audience: This workshop benefits technical and forensic artists who deal with the human face in their work, particularly for facial identification or restoration. It has practical applications in law enforcement, museum, medical, scientific and funeral/restorative work.

Level: Some facial drawing experience insures maximum benefit from the workshop.

Dates: September 9-13, 2024

Location: Texas State University, Freeman Ranch Multipurpose Classroom, San Marcos, TX

Textbook: The textbook Forensic Art and Illustration is highly recommended but not required.

Registration Information:

Contact: FACTS@txstate.edu for course information and local arrangements.

Tuition: $1050.00/person (tuition includes supplies and use of equipment, but not travel or accommodations)

Payment: Space is limited. Full payment of tuition (cash or check through the website) is required for registration. The payment website will open on April 1, 2024.

Pay by Check or Credit Card: After April 1, 2024 you may pay the tuition by check or credit card by clicking HERE and following the instructions. Please contact Dr. Sophia Mavroudas at 512-245-1900 or sm78@txstate.edu if you need assistance.

 

Cancellation: A 20% administrative fee per registrant will be deducted for cancellation. Refund requests must be received in writing two-months prior to the workshop (July 9, 2024). No refunds will be made thereafter.


Accommodations

Any hotel/motel within San Marcos will be within 15 minutes of the workshop site. You may ask for the Texas State Rate at some hotels for an additional discount.   

FACTS is not responsible for your stay.

 

 

Karen T. Taylor

Karen T. Taylor teaches several identification-related forensic art workshops at FACTS, both drawing and sculpture. Courses offered vary year to year. See “Workshops” for specific classes and times scheduled.