modelling

In art, the depiction of a three-dimensional form either through the sculpture of a soft substance, or the use of light, shadow, and colour in painting and drawing. It is also the practice of posing as an artist's subject.

In sculpture the technique of modelling uses clay or other plastic materials. It is the opposite of carving, the sculpture of harder, more resistant material. In painting and drawing modelling gives a two-dimensional surface the impression of three-dimensional solidity, and the subject matter roundness and weight. The term is most often used with reference to representations of the human figure.