Proportion refers to the comparative relationship of size that can be expressed using ratios and observed by comparing parts to the whole or one form to another. The notion of ideal proportions is often based on familiarity, norms, and convention, relating to both the human body and commonly designed objects. Measuring and plotting a human figure's proportions is used by artists to understand ideal proportions as well as intentionally distort them for expressive purposes, as seen in the works of Parmigianino, Giacometti, Saville, and Currin.

1. Proportions
Human Figure
Measuring and Siting

2. Proportion
Ratio
Proportion refers to the comparative relationship of size.
It can be expressed using a mathematical ratio and can
be observed by comparing:
• One form to another
• One part to the whole

3. Proportion
Ratio
Ideal Proportions and Convention
The notion of “correct” proportion is often
based on familiarity, norms, and
convention.
Ideals can relate to the human
body and accepted beliefs of
physical beauty, or to the design
of common objects.
Junya Nutanake. Lace ruff collar. Comme des Garçons.

4. Ideal

8. Measuring Using Pencil

11. Plotting the Figure’s Proportions

12. Distortion of the Figure’s Proportions

13. Elongation
Parmigianino
Madonna with the Long Neck
c. 1535-1540

14. Alberto Giacometti 's figure
stands 12 heads high. The
loss in natural proportion is
made up in expressive power.

15. Contemporary:
Jenny Saville

16. Contemporary:
John Currin