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Update ...
I'm on my third piece of paper because there were quite a few problems which arose when I tried to cut corners, and I didn't have a complete picture of what I was trying to accomplish. I'm almost finished with the outline on the new drawing and it's progressing well. I am already slightly amazed at the difference I see after merely beginning it correctly for a change.
I solved my light 'spill-over' problem by moving the whole setup to a new spot and just using the easel lamp to light the cast. I've recently moved to a new house I now have a large bedroom that is, instead, used only for art and music. So I've set the cast up on the black-draped dresser that I use for a stand, and I have the easel sitting just to the right of it. I have a permanent vertical plumbline from a yardstick which is clamped to the easel and the light from the easel lamp now illuminates the cast just fine without any help. I've taped off my viewing distance for reference and using a pair of calipers and a yardstick (I don't have a level yet) I have completed the outline from the measured marks I did first in vine charcoal.
I've also started to be very methodical about where I stand and which eye I use for sighting. I feel that my left eye is stronger (I'm right-handed) and I'm now wearing the glasses that I use sometimes in the office for 'PC Eye'. All the changes appear to be making a real difference. It's coming along nicely. Thanks Steven and Tim, for all the gracious assistance.
Also, I am now life-drawing on Thursday nights with a group that includes three professional illustrators and one teacher. It's a VERY motivating experience. I also plan to take my very first drawing class in January with one of the guys in the group who teaches in Winston-Salem. He's from a classical background (Ben Long and Pietro Anigonni) and is just what I was looking for.
Thanks again for the help everyone!
Minh
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