half figures?

[TADATSUGU]

I really don't get it!
I never really understood the vast popularity of busts, but at least the choice of cut off points gave them an air of artistry (like a classical statue), but I now keep seeing otherwise stunning figures being produced, which appear to be simply cut off at the waist!
Most of the figures are excellent quality and I understand the philosophy of like it buy it - don't like it - don't, but I keep finding myself asking, "should I buy it and sculpt my own legs!"
Yes these are in the main bigger figures and resin may be expensive, but surely the most difficult part of the sculpt is usually the upper body and face - can it be too much trouble to then sculpt the legs and maybe cast a lower number of them to be offered as conversion kits?
Any manufacturers / sculptors out there care to give their point of view on this?

 

[Tubby-Nuts2]

David! I would count your blessings, with a 'Half Bust', .. As busts seem to be getting well! Less 'Busty', as the years go by! In a few years we will have just 'Head & Shoulders'. ( Not the Shampoo, before any smart arse chips in). However, there are a number of full, 1/9th (200mm) figures and even 1/6th. But you will need a big cabinet for these!

Regards,

Mark

 

[Blind Pew]

The trend in busts does seem to be in this direction though. Elan13's recent job being a more traditional style. I for one prefer the classical style as well, cut off around the nipples (cue Finbar Saunders fans).

The half-figure style isn't my bag either.

 

[Gra30]

With the addition of arms it offers more opportunity to tell a story where a full figure would or could restrict display due to size. I like traditional busts but a charge or defensive rifleman would be hard to be portrayed in the traditional way.
Sometimes, not always, traditional busts look more like museum or character displays to me, something to sit on top of a piano. If done poorly it can be a head and shoulders in uniform and I think people like more character today , although some traditional done well are superb.
It is just more canvas for the painter, not to everyone's taste and fair enough, to me it's another option that opens more possibilities.

 

[swralph]

At first I wasn't too sure about half figure's.But having done one I found it a great experience.I have since bought a few more.I do like the way they give the opportunity to paint that little bit more of the uniform without having to deal with the legs and having to mount onto a display base,which woul be much larger than the base you can get away with with an half figure.
Cheers.
Ralph.