A computer automated 3D sketch artist process for generating a computer 3D image of an individual includes the steps of generating a morphable head model as a starting point to develop a composite 3D like picture of the individual by analysis of a prerecorded data base of 3D face pictures, selecting a lighting model to best depict the individual, selecting a mouth model from a prerecorded data base of mouth shapes to best depict the individual's mouth and teeth, selecting an expression model for the individual's composite 3D sketch from a prerecorded data base of facial expressions, and manipulating the generated composite 3D sketch with various morphing tools to selectively modify the composite sketch to best conform to the individual's characteristics.