Final Scan of CP Portrait

Below is a scanned image of the completed portrait of Elise, 20x16, colored pencil on Fisher 400 sanded paper.

Almost Done...

I'll probably finish this tomorrow and get a scan sometime shortly thereafter.

Getting there

An update on my 20x16 colored pencil portrait (slow progress due to my working on it only about an hour a day!)

Highlights in colored pencil

Here is an update on my colored pencil portrait work in progress. In the past, I used many dark colored pencils for not only shadows, but also highlighted areas, using a light touch. For this portrait, I am using more light colors on the light side of the face, and finding the whole process a lot easier and smoother-looking. I just try not to go too light too soon, or else really bright highlights do not show.

Re-Learning Colored Pencil

I'm starting a new colored pencil portrait, and remembering a few things that I had forgotten - like reserving white areas and color mixing - very different from oil! I'm working on sanded paper so I can apply lights over darks, but the resulting color is always a mix of the colors used, so it involves a bit of planning. Luckily, I work in layers, so I have many opportunities to adjust value and color. Here you can see the underdrawing done in dark umber, and the beginnings of some layers. The earlobe on the left and the scarf are pretty much done, though I may alter them later after working on other sections.

Upcoming CLWAC Members' Show

My piece Danny will be included in the exhibition.