All of the following rough out cuts were done with an 066 Stihl and a 32" bar. Using the three images provided, you must first establish the location of the head using the angle of the horns to the tip of the nose (extended to give room for error) I place it as far left as I can while still giving 3-4" to the edge. Most all of my rough out cuts use triangles. If you look at the rough out of the ram, you will find this to be true. The three primary shapes in art are the circle, square and triangle. Use them when blocking out and never start with the details. Also, use the real thing (photo's of rams) for your models. It's hard to go wrong that way.
From the pictures you find, (google.com then click images and type in big horn sheep) establish proportions from actual distances such as from the onset of the ear to the tip of the nose is nearly the same length of the lower hind leg. But we get to that in another set. Anyway, next establish the width and angle of spread of the horns. Remember, the most looked at feature of this animal is it's head and those magnificent horns. Do them well and half the battle is over.
Another factor to keep in mind is the skelatal structure. Do not place the ram in such a position that the skeleton cannot accomodate. After the head is located and the back of the skull between the horns is established, scribe a line with the bar in a sweeping motion along what will be the ridge of the back and spine. You will need to keep the position of the ram on the rocks it's climbing when roughing out these angles. Give it some flow. Always flare out your cuts to the edge of the log. You may need the extra wood as you go when locating a hip or knee later in the tutorial. You also should remember to scribe in the diameter of the horns. Did you get them even? Don't go much deeper than a scribe due to the fact that the ears are in there too and you need to maintain all the integrity you can for as long as you can with the horns. A few plunge cuts must be made to obtain the hollow under the chin and down near the chest and fore legs. Remember, always keep the capabilities of the animal in mind while carving, visualize the ram climbing up the rocks, be one with the ram... Too much? Hey I was getting into it! It's kinda actually how it gets. Don't you think?
Well, this should be a good start. I cannot tell you exactly everything, and I hope I didn't leave out any valuable info so far. I will try to field questions for a few days before posting another sequence. I will be in Oregon for two days or so hauling my Westport log up here. See ya.
Bob
Robert W. King
Edited so that pictures will be permanent.