A couple more sketchbook portraits, drawn from reference images. With liberal use of my new friend the blending stick.
And this quick pencil and pastel sketch without a reference. I got annoyed afterwards because all my non-referenced portraits look the same. I’m slowly working my way through Misty Mawn’s Face to Face class and hoping the practice and assignments will allow me to expand my methods for putting a face together.
And this is my niece Amber with new puppy Frank. I wanted to make a really beautiful portrait and surprise my sister with it, but this first attempt, although I’m happy with it as a portrait, doesn’t actually look like her daughter. I’m thinking of trying it in a few different mediums; capturing the essence of someone’s spirit is hard! It’s all in the eyes I’m finding. Get them slightly off and you’ve drawn someone else.
I’m also working on a painting today that I’m really looking forward to sharing with you. Yay!
I can’t believe it’s been so long since I visited your blog! Too long. I looove your portraits, especially the one of Amber. Also, Frank is quite possibly the best dog name of all time. Came over from CED! <3
Hi Beth, lovely to see you here again! I agree Frank is an awesome name for a dog. I’ve just been reading up on your blog; love the About page, it really made me laugh. 🙂
I think drawing from a photo reference is a good exercise. I’ve recently done two charcoal drawings from photos of my two children. They move so quickly it is very difficult to draw them from life.