I am in the process of altering and elk shoulder form from a semi-sneak slight left turn to a 45 degree left turn, head slightly down. By looking at several pictures that I have, I'm realizing that It may be more dificult than I at first thought. It looks like I should first do a slight progressional turn starting at the front of the shoulders and then a couple more cuts at various places up the neck. The picture that I have, looks like there is a slight impression at the base of the shoulders and then the neck looks like it grows a little where the muscles bulge at the sharpest point in the bend of the neck, on the left side. Does anybody out there know of any books, videos or just good ole advise as to how I should approach my project. I have done several alterations in the past, but not quite this big of scale and I would like this one to look anotomicly correct. Thanks for any advise that you might throw my way. Dan
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It's not quite an elk but, a horse might give you some kinda idea. If you have access to one it would be a good subject to study. I have mounted several elk and live on a horse farm. They have some common features that may help you do what you need to do. Good Luck!
Cowboy Up! It is easier to get the proper curvature of the neck if you work from behind the form.
After the head of an animal goes so far down, it is locked in place at the atlas and axis vertebrae (C-1 and C-2), so the neck will make a gradual sweep and not a TURN.
And if you study the muscles of the horse neck, you will be able to get the opposing muscles in the proper degree of flexion and relaxation.