The Portrait Gallery, March, 2008

[Dana Design]

The Portrait Gallery, March, 2008
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------

What's on your easel this month? Show a finished portrait or one in any stage of progress. This thread is for showcasing your work; others will only critique your work if you request it .

Here is a link in case you need help attaching your art work:
http://www.wetcanvas.com/Articles2/44487/496/

So please show us what you've been up to this month. We'd love to see it.

Even if you have already shown it in the main portraiture forum, you are invited to showcase it in this thread too.

And be sure to check out previous Portrait Galleries. Lots of great work in there!

[VeronicaF]

Hi Guys, Well this is what I am working on at the moment:) and its keeping me very busy:) being done in Soft pastels
http://www.wetcanvas.com/Community/images/01-Mar-2008/100443-PICT4099.JPG
http://www.wetcanvas.com/Community/images/01-Mar-2008/100443-PICT4103.JPG

taken without flash on, on the
camera
http://www.wetcanvas.com/Community/images/01-Mar-2008/100443-PICT4118.JPG

[WC Lee]

Started this on 2/28 but still making small adjustments on what I can find and here is how it looks at this point.

Rembrandt soft pastels on black Mi Teintes, 9" x 12"
The scan sort of cropped about half inch off the left side

http://www.wetcanvas.com/Community/images/01-Mar-2008/122017-sketch01141_4.jpg

[Lauren F-M]

Wow -- March already! :eek:
I'm not sure if it came in like a Lion or a Lamb... here, it came with some snow, but could have been worse, so who knows..... :p

Veronica -- nice start with the double portrait of the children. Strong expression to the bottom one's face. :clap: Watch that hand, though.

W.C. -- I really love the top part of this woman's face -- the eyes, the light & shadow -- looks very classical. The teeth come across to me as rather strong. Teeth are always tough to portray. However, this is coming along very well. :thumbsup:

Meanwhile, what is currently up on my easel is the WIP charcoal portrait I'm working on of my son Lee, who is posing for our weekly portraiture workshop. He's now done 2 out of 3 weeks, and this week went a lot better. First, Lee was in a great mood, and secondly, I think I turned to corner on my frustration-level with this one. The nose still bothers me, but other things are working out better.

I welcome your C's & C's! :D

First, here is a ref. photo of Lee taken this week:
http://www.wetcanvas.com/Community/images/02-Mar-2008/20772-Lee.jpg

Here is the WIP after this second session - about 4-1/2 hours total - in vine charcoal on cream Stonehenge half-sheet:
http://www.wetcanvas.com/Community/images/02-Mar-2008/20772-Leewip.jpg
Detail:
http://www.wetcanvas.com/Community/images/02-Mar-2008/20772-Leewipd.jpg

Cheers, Lauren :wave:

[Seveer]

Great Start dfo rhte month guys...Kepp up the good work...

And this is what is on my easel right now...

16X20
Ampersand pastel board
variety of soft pastels

I think I am in the ugly stage but trying to overcome it....

By the way I posted other WIP's of this in the soft pastel room.

[Dana Design]

It looks like some very good art in the making! And, I can't wait to see these finished!

[eliza ollin]

OK, here's my 2nd SP attempt, done for the challenge in the acrylics forum. Will probably work on it some more, but here's where it's at...

12x16 on canvas board from life (mirror), about 8 hours minus breaks...
http://www.wetcanvas.com/Community/images/02-Mar-2008/113295-SP2_2ndWIP.JPG

[AlisonsArt]

This is my first time to post in this forum but I hope to do that more. I did this portrait of an old friend and will be giving it to him this week. Thanks for looking.

[Lauren F-M]

Richard -- I love what you've done so far here! :clap: Great colours, mood, pose & movement -- like I can really imagine this man playing! :thumbsup:

Eliza -- You've been working hard here! :thumbsup: I guess this is the grisaille? You will be adding colour over this? One thing I see -- the right eye is a bit up and angled from the rest of the face. With this sp & your first one both, your strong style comes across. You are an artist with a good strong sure hand! :clap:

Alison -- Is this in charcoal? Great detail! :D

Cheers, Lauren :wave:

[TinaC]

Donna + John 5-100
http://www.wetcanvas.com/Community/images/03-Mar-2008/117326-IMG_3057_1.JPG
Very early stages but I am not sure am going to like it as its 20" x 30" and seems a bit too large and creepy. The intention is to keep it monochrome, trying to be a bit contemporary, but I am really not sure.................

[!becca]

There are some wonderful pieces here this month.

August99, an impressive start.

Eliza, you did it! :clap: A wonderful beginning, definitely worth investing more time. :wave:

Lauren, your sons drawing is moving along quickly.:)

Out of time, will get back later.

If I have time to photograph my latest, I'll post them later today. :wave:

[!becca]

I made a few finishing touches on this one after looking at her for a week, I think now that I will keep her. http://www.wetcanvas.com/Community/images/03-Mar-2008/100116-my_paintings_0065.jpg

I painted this one the other day, my 3/4 view. I did the same lighting technique as my last one to see if I had retained anything. This one was painted much more quickly and is on a used 11x14 canvas in oil.

http://www.wetcanvas.com/Community/images/03-Mar-2008/100116-my_paintings_0115.jpg

[Lauren F-M]

Good to see more portrait works being posted up! :D
March is off to a good start.

August -- this doesn't look creepy to me. It looks strong -- I like what you are doing & look forward to your next WIP post! :thumbsup:

Becca -- Hey, you are taking up Keron's torch with the self-portraits, eh! :clap:
I really like how this first one has turned out -- it's great, and l like the serious mood to it. Very strong! :thumbsup: This second SP has a good start to it, though to me it's not quite a three-quarter view -- somewhere between face-on and 3/4. One thing I see that seems not quite right is your left eye (to the right on the painting). It looks a bit higher than the other eye, and it seems a bit small and the pupil is perhaps too close to the other eye.:confused: If you can move it a bit down, enlarge it and make sure the eyes are not too close together, I think you will nail it. One good piece of advice my drawing teacher recently reminded us of -- make sure to take a break and stand back from your work to look at it and see how it's going. It is so easy to get so involved in our work we forget to do this. :rolleyes:

Cheers, Lauren :wave:

[!becca]

Lauren, thanks for the comments. Yes, I think that the second one needs fine tuning. I'm so glad that you defined the eye problem for me. I knew that something waas wrong, I just hadn't identified it yet.:confused: Standing back and taking a look does help, isn't it amazing how different they look from a new perspective, espically after a few days.:D :wave:

[!becca]

Sorry, I was interrupted before I finished my thoughts.

Lauren, Keron is a master at the sp, I am just trying to learn portraiture. I set it as a goal for myself this year to do so. Though I will admit, the 1st SP was torture,:eek: but after things start to come together they can even be fun.:D I do hope to paint other people at some time. :wave:

[Seveer]

Hello all,
Here is an update still on my easel. sorry about the bad pic...no sun here and had to use a flash so colors are washed out.

Looks like it is going to be a good March for the portrait gallery...very strong beginnings.

[!becca]

Richard, you may think that the colors are off, but I think that it looks very good.

[jennf]

Hi all,

I posted these in a separate thread, but will post them here, too. These are both studies that I did from photos in the Reference Image Library. Thanks to the WC members who posted pics for the rest of us to work from!

C&C always welcome.

11x14, oil on canvas

http://www.wetcanvas.com/Community/images/04-Mar-2008/104086-girl_full.JPG

http://www.wetcanvas.com/Community/images/04-Mar-2008/104086-girl_close_up.JPG

http://www.wetcanvas.com/Community/images/04-Mar-2008/104086-teen_hs.JPG

[Seveer]

Thanks !becca!!!

Here is a much better photo...was able to take one outside today before the snow.

[GrahamH]

I posted this on the Oil Painting Master of the month Jan/Feb which is Van Gogh. I haven't done a portrait before and although I was pleased with the end result I could not get the thumb in the palette to look correct. I rubbed it out twice before I left it, but I'm still not happy with it.
Anyone have any ideas about a thumb, or the portait as a whole?
Criticism good, bad, indifferent accepted, thanks.

http://www.wetcanvas.com/Community/images/04-Mar-2008/80798-final_400_x_533.JPG

http://www.wetcanvas.com/Community/images/04-Mar-2008/80798-final_thumb.JPG

[jocelynsart]

Again, some great things happening in here! I even see my daughter Shauna!

I have had little time to work on personal portraits, btu did get to start one I had been planning.
This is a friend of a friend, from our yearly Girls Getaway in May last year. I just love this woman's cute face with the expressive shapes and little dimples. I caught a nice shot of her just listening to one of us, holding her wine glass, on a couch, with window light hitting her. I'll need to photograph my own hand and the glass which happended to be one of mine anyway, in similar light, so I can include her hand.
I notice, on here, her left eye is a bit too high perspectively, which I'll need to adjust.
This woman and I share a Birthday too and get along amazingly.
I put up 3 WIP images of it. It has a ways to go :-)

Jocelyn

http://www.wetcanvas.com/Community/images/05-Mar-2008/8354-juliestarteda.jpg

http://www.wetcanvas.com/Community/images/05-Mar-2008/8354-juliestartedb.jpg

http://www.wetcanvas.com/Community/images/05-Mar-2008/8354-juliestartedc.jpg

[MadMaddy]

This is the first time to post in the portrait gallery. I have a WIP on this as well. I am doing a portrait of my sister and her son when he was about a year old. It is in graphite and very time consuming but I always do love the process with graphite as it seems to be somehow a stress relief for me. Plus it helps with passing the time since I have been put on bedrest.

So here it is. Long way to go yet but i think it is turning out well.

Pardon the pictures, it isn't easy to take pictures at the end of the couch since i can't really get up.

Thanks

[larubia]

http://www.wetcanvas.com/Community/images/05-Mar-2008/75590-Picture2.jpg http://www.wetcanvas.com/Community/images/05-Mar-2008/75590-Picture3.jpgdoing a Keron...2 drawings from life this evening both half an hour.

[PeteC]

is my mini-illustration (4"x4", gouache) of Alfred Waud at Gettysburg. He was a war correspondent who used a sketch pad instead of a notepad. Critiques welcome. http://www.wetcanvas.com/Community/images/05-Mar-2008/109872-waud.jpg

[larubia]

http://www.wetcanvas.com/Community/images/05-Mar-2008/75590-Picture4.jpg got the bug tonight..another half hour with fibre tipped pen.

[!becca]

Jocelyn, I like the soft quality of your work.

PeteC, remarkably well detailed for the size.

Larubia, how prolific and good with or without the time frame.

[WC Lee]

9 x 12 inch pastels on black mi teintes (smooth side)

http://www.wetcanvas.com/Community/images/06-Mar-2008/122017-sketch01143.jpg

[Dana Design]

Just amazing work, everyone! I love scrolling through these. Wonderfully talented people!

[larubia]

http://www.wetcanvas.com/Community/images/06-Mar-2008/75590-Picture5.jpg ended up painting with pen:eek: cil...

[PeteC]

!becca, thanks. Working small lets me finish almost as many things as I start!

WC Lee - I love the way you've used the blue in the shadow area around the eyes and echoed it in the background.

[jocelynsart]

Love this!!!!!


9 x 12 inch pastels on black mi teintes (smooth side)

http://www.wetcanvas.com/Community/images/06-Mar-2008/122017-sketch01143.jpg

[jocelynsart]

I managed to do more yesterday and I actually get to do a couple hours today too! lol!

The tones and surface are way more accurate here.


http://www.wetcanvas.com/Community/images/06-Mar-2008/8354-juliestartedd.jpg

[lokeforrest]

Hi There...I'd like to post a portrait of my grandson that I've been working on. Needless to say, it is impossible to do children totally from life, so I've been working using a photo and studying him in life as well. I'm trying a new method (at least to me) that of glazing the layers on. It is definitely a longer process than alla prima, but I think the outcome is so much more luminous. I'm posting the original photo and the painting at the third layer of glaze.
http://www.wetcanvas.com/Community/images/06-Mar-2008/114372-Jackson,_portrait.JPG
http://www.wetcanvas.com/Community/images/06-Mar-2008/114372-Jack,_3rd_layer_.jpg

Will post the finished product.:wink2:

[bethanyt]

A second portrait of my daughter who started Uni 2 weeks ago.
This is about 2hours from life, then finished from photo.
oil on canvas 60cm x 40cm,
http://www.wetcanvas.com/Community/images/07-Mar-2008/110135-Efin.JPG
bethany:D

[LGHumphrey]

Graham, that portrait of Karen looks really great, and there's nothing wrong with the thumb.

WC Lee, fabulous, simply fabulous!

[larubia]

http://www.wetcanvas.com/Community/images/07-Mar-2008/75590-Picture9.jpg tonights drawing..charcoal and conte white
Bethany..beautiful daughter...looks wistful and enquiring.

[eliza ollin]

Lara, your WIP is GORGEOUS!!! It's very well done, and I have a soft spot for these tender parenting moments, trying to capture one myself...

[jocelynsart]

Latest progress. Fixed her adams apple too lol!


http://www.wetcanvas.com/Community/images/08-Mar-2008/8354-juliestartede.jpg

[theBoardLady]

Just beautiful portraits done by all! :thumbsup: This is one that I'm just finishing up but I'm debating if to add a colored background or leave it as is, what do you all think?

This was done on a 25 X 19 in. (63.5 X 48.2 cm) Strathmore 500 Series charcoal - Golden Brown paper. I used charcoal, 5B, 6B pencils plus white charcoal for highlights.

http://www.wetcanvas.com/Community/images/08-Mar-2008/123973-DSC_0004-2.JPG

C & C's welcomed.

The Boardlady

[sheepdog]

Oil, 16x20" Two hours from life. Comments welcome.

[Dana Design]

Just beautiful portraits done by all! :thumbsup: This is one that I'm just finishing up but I'm debating if to add a colored background or leave it as is, what do you all think?

This was done on a 25 X 19 in. (63.5 X 48.2 cm) Strathmore 500 Series charcoal - Golden Brown paper. I used charcoal, 5B, 6B pencils plus white charcoal for highlights.

http://www.wetcanvas.com/Community/images/08-Mar-2008/123973-DSC_0004-2.JPG

C & C's welcomed.

The Boardlady

The hat is overwhelming the face. But that's ok as long as the face is the most important issue. I think you need to define the features of the face, ie. increase the darks. Also, lower the lip on the right,bring it down a bit to match the level of the eyes/nose.

There is no light source and you can build one here. It's ready! Perchance the light is coming from upper right, the left side of the face/features would be darker.

[Bnsmalkin]

:wave: You are all wonderful artists and the portraits display here are absolutely terrific!!!!!! :clap: :clap:

I am feeling brave today and thought I would show you what I am working.
There is still quite aways to go but today she got her first layer of skin.
My ref. 1"x1" polaroid
http://www.wetcanvas.com/Community/images/09-Mar-2008/99680-Sharon_3-21-92.jpg
http://www.wetcanvas.com/Community/images/09-Mar-2008/99680-PICT00073.JPG
I am always open to C&C. :thumbsup:
Thanks for looking.
Sharon :wave:

[Holley]

I posted this portrait over at the pastel forum recently and thought I might as well share it here aswell. This is my daughter at 5 weeks of age, she is now 12 weeks old. Her name is Summer, 8x10 inches, pastel pencils. I am a bit rusty because I've had some time away from artwork due to the birth of my baby girl but I am keen to keep painting regularly again. :wave:

http://www.wetcanvas.com/Community/images/09-Mar-2008/28375-Summer_5wks_SP2.jpg

[Deborah Secor]

Man,I am BLOWN AWAY by the quality of work here this month!

Here's my current one, finished for the most part I think. I may do very minor tweaks, such as rounding the shadow on her shoulder (R-H side).

http://www.wetcanvas.com/Community/images/09-Mar-2008/23609-DSCN7814.JPG

I welcome any comments or suggestions anyone from this talented group can give me. Thanks!

Deborah

[claydesigner2156]

Hi All,
Just posted this pic of my granddaughter on the other section but the "invite" said post here too so...
She was 2 and about to cry so her lips are all pouty.

Just starting another one of a little girl. Love to paint children. They are so sweet and gentle...perfect for watercolor. Of course, that is when they are NOT haveing a melt-down!! :lol:

Anyway comment...good and bad are welcomed.

Yvonne

There is no magic formula....

[jocelynsart]

Awww, beautiful! And good for you getting right back into it. Don't quit! :-)
Jocelyn

I posted this portrait over at the pastel forum recently and thought I might as well share it here aswell. This is my daughter at 5 weeks of age, she is now 12 weeks old. Her name is Summer, 8x10 inches, pastel pencils. I am a bit rusty because I've had some time away from artwork due to the birth of my baby girl but I am keen to keep painting regularly again. :wave:

http://www.wetcanvas.com/Community/images/09-Mar-2008/28375-Summer_5wks_SP2.jpg


oh my, I see me here too! I am surprised so many like working form that photo. After I submitted it, I thought it was a very unflattering photo lol! People do better jobs with it then it is as a reference.

[jennf]

Hi everyone,

Lots of great work here this month! :clap:

Here is my latest study. 11 x 14, oil on canvas.

Thanks for looking!
Jennifer

http://www.wetcanvas.com/Community/images/10-Mar-2008/104086-Robert_study.JPG

http://www.wetcanvas.com/Community/images/10-Mar-2008/104086-Robert_close_up.JPG

[T.Evans]

WC LEE-:D :) great job, Think maybe teeth are a little too white

[T.Evans]

Seveere, wow, love all the color

[T.Evans]

Jocelynsart, Wow, I love your work

[T.Evans]

Sheepdog, Nice work

[cnair]

http://www.wetcanvas.com/Community/images/10-Mar-2008/63167-ivyportraitmodelyc24.jpg

Portrait of Ivy

More to do (right hand/fingers, eyes?) or just stop? C&C welcome.

Chandran

[jocelynsart]

Wow, love the eyes and the skin around them in this Jenn!

Thanks T Evans.

Hi everyone,

Lots of great work here this month! :clap:

Here is my latest study. 11 x 14, oil on canvas.

Thanks for looking!
Jennifer

http://www.wetcanvas.com/Community/images/10-Mar-2008/104086-Robert_study.JPG

http://www.wetcanvas.com/Community/images/10-Mar-2008/104086-Robert_close_up.JPG

[jocelynsart]

Lots of time to paint this week :-)

I am at the point where I now need to photograph my own hand holding that glass, in the same light, to finish this.

There's a bit to much contrat in the jacket here then in real life.

http://www.wetcanvas.com/Community/images/10-Mar-2008/8354-juliestartedg.jpg

As well, here is the ref.

http://www.wetcanvas.com/Community/images/10-Mar-2008/8354-julieref.jpg

[LGHumphrey]

Jennifer, a very convincing portrait, well done.

[lokeforrest]

Hi There...I'd like to post a portrait of my grandson that I've been working on. Needless to say, it is impossible to do children totally from life, so I've been working using a photo and studying him in life as well. I'm trying a new method (at least to me) that of glazing the layers on. It is definitely a longer process than alla prima, but I think the outcome is so much more luminous. I'm posting the original photo and the painting at the third layer of glaze.
http://www.wetcanvas.com/Community/images/06-Mar-2008/114372-Jackson,_portrait.JPG
http://www.wetcanvas.com/Community/images/06-Mar-2008/114372-Jack,_3rd_layer_.jpg

Will post the finished product.:wink2:

This is not the finished product because I'm stuck and need some of your expert advice. I am not happy with the BG...what do you think? I do need to fix the folds in his shirt. His skin tones, after many layers, seems too alabaster color...what can I do to add more color to it...what color glaze?:confused:
HELP!!
http://www.wetcanvas.com/Community/images/12-Mar-2008/114372-Jack_portrait_2.jpg

[jocelynsart]

Getting there.


http://www.wetcanvas.com/Community/images/12-Mar-2008/8354-juliestartedh.jpg

[MadMaddy]

Here is the latest on my WIP of mother and child. Still a long way to go but think i am done with the mother for the time being. I may change my mind later but for now, i will be working on the baby.

I am enjoying watching everyones work develop this month. Lots of beautiful work done.

[dom guyane]

My first portrait : Watercolor on Montval 140 24x32 (9 3/8 x 12 1/2). Comments

http://www.wetcanvas.com/Community/images/12-Mar-2008/104820-bleue.jpg

[tommie]

Jocelynart, I really like what you are doing here! The portrait will be a treasure to this person. I'm interested how you will finish her hand holding the glass. It looks challanging. You will do a great job though. I think another option is that you could leave it out all together and maybe add her dog or cat in the spot or something else altogether. I know what ever you choose will be right for the painting.

[diquattrom]

I did this recently. C&C welcome. What are your thoughts on the color choices?

[diquattrom]

Beautiful piece. I like the style your using.

My first portrait : Watercolor on Montval 140 24x32 (9 3/8 x 12 1/2). Comments

http://www.wetcanvas.com/Community/images/12-Mar-2008/104820-bleue.jpg

[Bnsmalkin]

:clap: :clap: OMG the talent in this thread alone!!!:clap: :clap:

I posted earlier on in the thread and thought that I could show you guys an update. :)

http://www.wetcanvas.com/Community/images/12-Mar-2008/99680-PICT00019.JPG
http://www.wetcanvas.com/Community/images/12-Mar-2008/99680-PICT00029.JPG
Thanks for letting me share with all of you.:)

Sharon :wave:

[dom guyane]

I am sorry, I did'nt notice that the half message disappeared : I just wanted to say that you comments are welcome, it was'nt a order :o

[jocelynsart]

Hi Tommie: I am going to leave it fairly loose, almost just a drawing for most of it. A dog or cat just would not fit her personality but thanks for those ideas, I had not thought of changing what she was holding. Taking her hand out seemed to make the comp a bit too boring.
Thank you; jocelyn

[vbranch]

This one was posted in another thread but the image size was so small. I am hoping this one works better. It is 22 x 28" acrylic done with mostly a painting kinfe.

I enjoy looking at everyone's paintings!

[!becca]

After living with my previous portrait a day, I realized it was not a very good portrait. I sought the opinion of a few trusted friends who confirmed my belief. They felt it was not a very good painting, and not a good likeness. So, I have tried again, actually I set up for the same pose. I don't really know if I have improved or not, I have horrible judgment when it comes to my paintings. Comments are welcome, they are very helpful to me.

http://www.wetcanvas.com/Community/images/14-Mar-2008/100116-my_paintings_008-copy_copy.jpg

Thanks for looking.

[Bnsmalkin]

Becca
I can see an improvement.
Like you I too need to try again. I guess we are learning!
Sharon

[!becca]

Thank you Sharon for your comment, I thought that yours was developing nicely. Learning can be tough can't it? I can see from my uploaded image that my mouth, nose area look off. I don't know why those flaws show up only in my postings, maybe I'll try working on that area.

[bundyrap]

Hi Everyone

I've never posted here before. I do airbrush portraits so have done a couple of postings in the airbrush section while I was sorting out problems with my brush and paint etc. I started doing portraits in the middle of last year and have done about 20 since then. I'm posting one of my latest pics which was finished last month. It's a friend of mine who is a hairdresser and her husband is very "ungroomed" with a ratty little pony tail which he refuses to let her touch. To get them close together I got her to put the ponytail across her lip like a moustache which also had the effect of making them laugh and relax so I was able to get a really natural photo to work from.
I was painting on 300gsm hot pressed watercolour paper (56x76cm) but have just started doing large nudes on canvas (90x120cm or 36"x48") which is very different and challenging but a lot of fun too.

cheers from Patti
Australia

[LGHumphrey]

dom, Michele, Sharon, vbranch, !becca and bundyrap, you are doing wonderful work and here's a word of appreciation to all of you.

[Bnsmalkin]

Lawerence you are kind!!

Becca - I thank you for your comments. I am trying to get the likeness down. Didn't really work but it is really fun trying.
All though, we had company over last night and my easel was pushed off to a corner, (I haven't signed or dated it yet), It is drying and my friends husband noticed and immediately recognized the person. In their eyes they thought it was terrific, of course I did not say anthing other than thank you with a big smile!!
Becca are you using a photo or the mirror? You are so Brave!!!!!

Patti this is terrific!
Sharon

[!becca]

Sharon, happy to hear of your positive critique. I am using a mirror and a bit of my gut feeling for some areas since my lighting changes through the day. Have worked with the mouth area, may post it later.

Patti, wonderful!

Jocelynart, your progressive posts are inspiring.

[LynnDigby]

Oil, 16x20" Two hours from life. Comments welcome.

This is just terrific, sheepdog!:thumbsup:

[Bnsmalkin]

Becca
I am not brave enough for the mirror yet.:eek: I am happy painting from a photo, For now! :) I will challenge myself soon!:D

Well the painting was sort a bothering me, so my husband suggested that I post it over in oil painting and maybe they could help figure out what was bothering me. Everything was measuring but it wasn't right.
I did post this and I am so glad that I did. They jumped in to help and with their guidance I now have an update::D
http://www.wetcanvas.com/Community/images/16-Mar-2008/99680-PICT000511.JPG
Her eye highlights are off. I'll fix that directly. Outside of that, she looks better without the beard, no???:D :confused::lol: Paint is wet it seems more blended in person.

Sharon:wave:

[dollardays]

After living with my previous portrait a day, I realized it was not a very good portrait. I sought the opinion of a few trusted friends who confirmed my belief. They felt it was not a very good painting, and not a good likeness. So, I have tried again, actually I set up for the same pose. I don't really know if I have improved or not, I have horrible judgment when it comes to my paintings. Comments are welcome, they are very helpful to me.


Thanks for looking.

Hi Becca. This one IS better than your first one. Much better. I wonder why you are working in such a dark room. It affects the skin tones in a negative way I think and also creates problems when you attempt to identify hues in the reflected light. All your skin tones are turning green in the shadow areas and this has to be because you are overdoing the pthtalo gree or the walls are very dark green. I did this quick portrait in front of a small mirror in the bathroom last week. The white walls are brightly lit and the room is small so all the reflections light up the skin well. I would recommend you try a brighter portrait next- you will be amazed at the difference in the quality of "seeing".

Hope this suggestion helps.

Nora

http://www.wetcanvas.com/Community/images/16-Mar-2008/3589-self-portrait-march08small.jpg

[dollardays]

This one was posted in another thread but the image size was so small. I am hoping this one works better. It is 22 x 28" acrylic done with mostly a painting kinfe.

I enjoy looking at everyone's paintings!

Wow! That is a lovely painting. Thanks for sharing it.

[dollardays]

This is what I worked on today: my 10 year old daughter, Katie. She poses for a 20-30 minutes at a time and then gets bored. She even switched books on me- finished the one I had in here originally and left it at school and brought a bigger yellow one home the last time. So this is after about 2-1/2 hours total. I think I have enough to take a picture and finish it up. The book looks a bit funny but I will fix it I think. The wicker loveseat is not really warped- that is my camera-taking. LOL

Thx,
Nora

http://www.wetcanvas.com/Community/images/16-Mar-2008/3589-katie-reading3.jpg

http://www.wetcanvas.com/Community/images/16-Mar-2008/3589-katie-reading3a.jpg

[Seveer]

Hey all,
It's a good month here. Posted this on in a seperate thread but thought I would put it here too.

Still a WIP.

This she is 91 years old and a very vibrant, alert and intelligent woman.

ampersand pastel board
8X10
various soft pastels

[!becca]

Nora, thanks for the comments. :) You are right, I think that the portrait done with low lights is best saved for when (and if) I get better. I am glad that you think that I am getting better, the entire process has been demoralizing for me. :o :eek: I had decided to throw in the towel, but may try another which I have a photo ref of. By the way, your portraits are lovely. :wave:

[maw-t]

I made a few finishing touches on this one after looking at her for a week, I think now that I will keep her. http://www.wetcanvas.com/Community/images/03-Mar-2008/100116-my_paintings_0065.jpg

I painted this one the other day, my 3/4 view. I did the same lighting technique as my last one to see if I had retained anything. This one was painted much more quickly and is on a used 11x14 canvas in oil.

http://www.wetcanvas.com/Community/images/03-Mar-2008/100116-my_paintings_0115.jpg

I love both of these.. but my fave is the 2d one.. I even put in my saves! I think you have a very unique and memoriable style!

[VeronicaF]

I finished this one
http://www.wetcanvas.com/Community/images/17-Mar-2008/100443-PICT4168.JPG

and now I am working on this one
http://www.wetcanvas.com/Community/images/17-Mar-2008/100443-PICT4299.JPG

soft pastels

[WC Lee]

soft pastels on museum board primed with gesso and pumice, 8 x 10

http://www.wetcanvas.com/Community/images/17-Mar-2008/122017-sketch01167_2.jpg

[jocelynsart]

Nora, that is a wonderful painting of your daughter! The face is especially excellent. As well, a fabulous self portrait!


I finished. Less then thrilled with the glass and hand but not entirely unhappy but I feel taking it out completely would not work.
The shadowed side of the face shows a bit too light here and there is a bit too much overall over contrasty look in this pic.

http://www.wetcanvas.com/Community/images/17-Mar-2008/8354-juliedone.jpg

[Bnsmalkin]

Becca
These are terrific!! The second is my favorite.

Jocelyn
I like the fade out of the hand. No distractions from your subject.

WC This beautiful!

Veronica you are moving right along!
Sharon

[dollardays]

Nora, that is a wonderful painting of your daughter! The face is especially excellent. As well, a fabulous self portrait!


I finished. Less then thrilled with the glass and hand but not entirely unhappy but I feel taking it out completely would not work.
The shadowed side of the face shows a bit too light here and there is a bit too much overall over contrasty look in this pic.

http://www.wetcanvas.com/Community/images/17-Mar-2008/8354-juliedone.jpg

Thank you, Jocelyn- means a lot coming from you!!

I like this portrait of your friend as well. I wish the glass were a bit clearer, but what you have managed to do very well, even working from a photograph- is capture the gesture and the "feel' Of her. That is very hard to do- people always want everything very vertical. She is relaxed and casual and warm- it is a true "portrait"!

Nora

[!becca]

Maw-T, Sharon, thank you for your comments. Of the two, I think that the second is better as well. I do have room to grow.:)

WC Lee, another beautiful piece.

I have hesitated, but since I posted this piece earlier, here is my final version.

http://www.wetcanvas.com/Community/images/17-Mar-2008/100116-my_paintings_011_copy5.jpg

Comments are welcome.

[jocelynsart]

Thank you. I had the glass a lot more in and today I stood up and just obliterated a lot of this, fading it all back. I was going to remove it all btu got a stage I liked first and left it. It shows less here actually as I guess how I took this pic took out some of the paint strokes. It looks a little better IRL, thankfully lol! There is less contrast but a bit more there IRL.

[amsterdamadam]

The ref photo was the basis for these two portraits of my girlfriend and me, made on rough (too rough?) Arches watercolorpaper. The faces are painted with varying layers of raw sienna, burned sienna and alizarine crimson, dry on dry. The background is a mixture of ultramarine and alizarine, wet on wet.
Comments and critique most welcome!
Amsterdamadam

[!becca]

Jocelyn, very nice portrait, I especially like the hair. The overall texture of the piece is wonderful.

Amsterdamadam, I like your portraits very much.

Nora, I wanted to mention that I started a new portrait last night.

[devymarie]

This is a pastel portrait called, "Ghost". It is done on Micaceous Iron Oxide ground.http://www.wetcanvas.com/Community/images/17-Mar-2008/102080-portrait_on_iron_oxide_058.JPG

[Roxie Real]

Becca, don't give up. You are getting better with every painting you do. I like this last one. Roxie

[WC Lee]

lots of great stuff so far this month :) good work everyone.

-----

a quickie pastel sketch tonight, 14 x 17

http://www.wetcanvas.com/Community/images/17-Mar-2008/122017-sketch01168.jpg

[dano1282]

What a variety of techniques!! I enjoy checking this forum out regularly.
Here is a wedding portrait I have just completed.http://www.wetcanvas.com/Community/images/17-Mar-2008/126999-kathy__david_final.JPG On the faces I did several layers of very dry glazes. Please feel free to c & c. Thanks for all the inspiration!

[PAEN]

Jocelynsart, I just love your portrait and the wine in the blue glass seems really needed to maintain your color balance and the casual posture of your friend. I do have one observation: The glass appears too large compared to your reference where the base of the goblet fits within the hand and the bottom of the glass appears to be at breast height. Changing the size would move the glass back.

However, if you were doing my portrait, my wine glass would probably be this size:)

[!becca]

Roxie Real, thank you for your kind words of encouragement.:)

[VeronicaF]

oh what wonderful Portrait's there is here, really fantastic,

This is how mine is coming on

its called a "Pipe dream"done is soft pastels


http://www.wetcanvas.com/Community/images/18-Mar-2008/100443-PICT4305.JPG


http://www.wetcanvas.com/Community/images/18-Mar-2008/100443-PICT4312.JPG
http://www.wetcanvas.com/Community/images/18-Mar-2008/100443-PICT4309.JPG

[Merlion]

Dano, it is a good piece of work. How big is it?

A small detail if you can still adjust. The eye of the bride is correctly looking slightly up. But the groom's eye is looking straight ahead instead of slightly down.

[larubia]

http://www.wetcanvas.com/Community/images/21-Mar-2008/75590-Picture92.jpg done my usual..still messing about with this..looked like a pink prawn before!:evil:

[MadMaddy]

Well I finally finished this one and have already started another for commission. I haven't taken any photos of the one as it is still in very early stages. My sister really did love this one though so I think I will have to get a print done at least to send her. She cried when she saw it ( not sure if i mentioned it but it is my sister and her son when he was 1 yr old.)

All of the portraits here and very impressive and as was already mentioned, the variety of style and medium is very enjoyable. I have really enjoyed following everyones work this month. :)

[WC Lee]

Rembrandt on Tiziano, 5.75 x 8.25 inches

http://www.wetcanvas.com/Community/images/21-Mar-2008/122017-sketch01172.jpg

And this one, Art Spectrums on gesso and pumice primer, 7 x 8.5 inches

http://www.wetcanvas.com/Community/images/21-Mar-2008/122017-sketch01173.jpg

[dollardays]

http://www.wetcanvas.com/Community/images/21-Mar-2008/75590-Picture92.jpg done my usual..still messing about with this..looked like a pink prawn before!:evil:


Wow! Larubia-- you have turned yourself into quite a sea nymph here. Totally awesome work!!! Is it fun painting naked? :evil:

Nora

[dollardays]

Bad photo- glare and all that-- taken at night. A painting of my friend's daughter where I was trying an innovative (fro me anyway) composition. It is almost finished.

http://www.wetcanvas.com/Community/images/21-Mar-2008/3589-Taylor1.jpg

[!becca]

Here is one I did a few nights ago. I am not sure how happy I am with it yet.

http://www.wetcanvas.com/Community/images/21-Mar-2008/100116-my_paintings_004_copy5.jpg

It is a 12 x 16 oil on canvas. Comments welcome, thanks for looking.

[Bnsmalkin]

Larubia :wave: I am a fan!!

Becca :wave: You are moving along so quickly. I like the looseness of this one. Probably why you are not sure of it. It is very different from the close up portraits.:)

WC Lee :wave: these are just terriffic.:thumbsup:

I am inspired by all of you!!!:clap: :clap:

Sharon:wave:

[!becca]

Thanks for the comments Sharon, I like the looseness too. :) I just feel as if she looks stiffer than I wished, and I don't know how to correct that yet. I hope with practice I can resolve that quality. Also, I think that her head looks too big, I have scaled the painting and haven't yet nailed that yet either. :wave:

[Bnsmalkin]

:wave: Hi Becca! You are very hard on yourself. You are moving along very quickly. Look at all the painting you have done compared to my very slow one. I can see with each and everyone of your paintings growth. Your comps are getting better as well as your sence of light, believe me you are doing great.:clap: :clap:

Speaking of my slow one. :D I have made some changes and now I'll be done. Her mouth was off, so I changed it. It does seem better.:thumbsup:
I have to force myself to move on.
My husband and friends tell me that this is a good likeness.:lol:
Like you, I have a hard time looking past everything that I know is wrong, I don't see what others see.:eek:
http://www.wetcanvas.com/Community/images/22-Mar-2008/99680-PICT000213.JPG
This upload is a little fuzzy. I hope it is clear enough for you to see.
The background is a mottled purple IRL, this is showing bluer on my screen.

I am thinking that it is time to date this!!:D

Sharon:wave:

[!becca]

Sharon, I think that you are generous, but thank you.:D

Your painting does look a little fuzzy on the screen, but I think I can see it well enough. I think that it has developed nicely. the hair and mouth look especially good. And if it is a good likeness that is a success.:clap:

[Bnsmalkin]

Becca
Talk about being generous!:lol:
I struggled with the eyes!!!!!!!
The mouth is o.k. now that it is the right size.:lol:
I am not totally unhappy with this, it is my 2nd completed portrait.:)
I know that I can do better with some more experience.:rolleyes: What is that you say, practice, practice and more practice. Oh and can you put a fire under my butt so I can complete my projects just a little faster.:D
All though this one took less time than my first one.:thumbsup:

Sharon:wave:

[CRYork]

Meanwhile, what is currently up on my easel is the WIP charcoal portrait I'm working on of my son Lee, who is posing for our weekly portraiture workshop. He's now done 2 out of 3 weeks, and this week went a lot better. First, Lee was in a great mood, and secondly, I think I turned to corner on my frustration-level with this one. The nose still bothers me, but other things are working out better.

I welcome your C's & C's! :D

First, here is a ref. photo of Lee taken this week:
http://www.wetcanvas.com/Community/images/02-Mar-2008/20772-Lee.jpg

Here is the WIP after this second session - about 4-1/2 hours total - in vine charcoal on cream Stonehenge half-sheet:
http://www.wetcanvas.com/Community/images/02-Mar-2008/20772-Leewip.jpg
Detail:
http://www.wetcanvas.com/Community/images/02-Mar-2008/20772-Leewipd.jpg

Cheers, Lauren :wave:

I haven't been on the Portraiture Forum for a couple of months...I've been posting a lot of portraits and drawings on the colored pencil forum.

Lauren, this caught my eye, because I did a portrait of a "Fallen Soldier" about a month ago. He was killed in Iraq last June. I will post it here. I was curious about whether you put the camauflage design on the uniform in your finished portrait. Where is your son stationed? It was nice of him to pose for your artist's class.

I was looking at everyone's work that is posted here. You are all a talented and busy group of artists!

http://www.wetcanvas.com/Community/images/22-Mar-2008/70412-fallensoldier.jpg
I know I could've done a better job on the folds...any other C&Cs welcome!

Char

[Bnsmalkin]

Char and Lauren both are beautiful portraits!!!!!!!!!!!!!

Sharon

[UrszulA]

Finished few days ago. Based on a B&W stock photo from deviantart with some changes (like the cape).
http://www.wetcanvas.com/Community/images/22-Mar-2008/78126-sauvage_1.jpg
Oil on canvas, 9x12in, painted in 5-6 layers.
Thanks for looking!
Ursula

[larubia]

http://www.wetcanvas.com/Community/images/23-Mar-2008/75590-Picture134.jpgwel doing my usual reworking..just got ear and earring to do...:D
Nice painting Ursula!
Dollardays..you really paint lovely solid heads..this one is no exception.
Ibecca...am impressed by your struggles as well...sp's are hard and it's great to see someone else doing it and improving with each one.
BSMalkin...yep you've got a good likeness now.
http://www.wetcanvas.com/Community/images/23-Mar-2008/75590-Picture103.jpg
still working on this too...the far leg is going up and down and the butt is getting smaller.

[!becca]

Larubia, you are right sp's are difficult, and a full figure would be a tremendous challenge. Yours is coming along great. Your head portrait is very flattering, it has a soft quality.

[Bnsmalkin]

Larubia
Thank you for your kindness. I am very new to this and nowhere near your calibur. I am a fan of your work and your bravery.
It is inspirational.

I think that the figure is turning out just beautifully. All of your portraits are terrific!!!
Sharon

[BlueStarr]

Hi all! I'm very new here.. but I like to jump in with both feet so here's something I did this month... critiques are welcome... and does anyone else have a problem with their scanners lightening their images? it's downright frustrating. Oh, and Happy Easter!

http://www.wetcanvas.com/Community/images/23-Mar-2008/135637-jima.jpg

[Spritzer]

I posted this before the crash and it got lost. I need lots of C&C as I was told that it doesn't look like her.
Please click image for a larger version.
I used Stablio pencils on Strathmore pastel. Trying the Chiaroscuro 389885
Spritzer

[BlueStarr]

I posted this before the crash and it got lost. I need lots of C&C as I was told that it doesn't look like her.


It does look like her, I think if you brought the hair line down a little at the part it would help, it kinda makes her face look longer in spite of the fact that I think you got the structure of her face right.

[LGHumphrey]

Hi Starr, I visited your website and blog, and especially like your charcoal sketches, including the one of Jim you have just posted. Great work.

[Spritzer]

Thanks for your help Starr. I think you're correct on the hairline. I don't have any blond grandchildren so this blond hair was new to me.

SpritZer

[BlueStarr]

Thanks for your help Starr. I think you're correct on the hairline. I don't have any blond grandchildren so this blond hair was new to me.

SpritZer

glad I could help!

[CRYork]

I posted this before the crash and it got lost. I need lots of C&C as I was told that it doesn't look like her.
Please click image for a larger version.
I used Stablio pencils on Strathmore pastel. Trying the Chiaroscuro 389885
Spritzer
I think it does look like her, but maybe the fact that it is inverted is throwing whoever told you it doesn't look like her. Ie: Her hair part is on her left side now, instead of the right. That can change the appearance. You might also check the corners of her mouth....do they need to be tipped upward a little more?

Char

[!becca]

Here is my latest attempt. It is 11"x14" oil on stretched canvas. Right now, I am pausing, I don't know if I am going to add more paint or not. C&C welcome.
http://www.wetcanvas.com/Community/images/25-Mar-2008/100116-my_paintings_0045.jpg

[larubia]

http://www.wetcanvas.com/Community/images/25-Mar-2008/75590-Picture161.jpg after leaving it for another day realised the eyes were too dark,the skin patchy...loaded my turps with linseed and tried to unify the form.

[Dana Design]

Hi everyone,

Lots of great work here this month! :clap:

Here is my latest study. 11 x 14, oil on canvas.

Thanks for looking!
Jennifer

http://www.wetcanvas.com/Community/images/10-Mar-2008/104086-Robert_study.JPG

http://www.wetcanvas.com/Community/images/10-Mar-2008/104086-Robert_close_up.JPG


Jennifer, this one stopped me dead in my tracks! It's exceptional. I love that face!

[Dana Design]

http://www.wetcanvas.com/Community/images/21-Mar-2008/75590-Picture92.jpg done my usual..still messing about with this..looked like a pink prawn before!:evil:

Just gobsmacked! This is the finest work I've seen from you, Larubia. Wonderful portrait and it should be entered in contests! Truly beautiful!

[Dana Design]

Trying something new. Very rough draft. Painted wet into wet and now need it to dry before adding top layers of paint. C&C most welcome!

[!becca]

Dana Design, your painting has a very delicate classical look. I like it very much.

[Bnsmalkin]

:wave: Becca :wave: This is sooo dramatic!!!!
I really like the head angle/composition. I can see that you were inspired over the holiday.:D

Dana you are very talented.
Do you have a wip going? I would love to sit in, I am positive that I could learn from it.:thumbsup:

I started a new project.:) I did start a wip on this.
It is another 1"x1" tiny picture. I have blown it up as large as I could and then I greyscaled it.
http://www.wetcanvas.com/Community/images/25-Mar-2008/99680-Blane.jpg
So you can see how far I took the drawing this time.
http://www.wetcanvas.com/Community/images/25-Mar-2008/99680-PICT0001.JPG
http://www.wetcanvas.com/Community/images/25-Mar-2008/99680-PICT00021.JPG
and where it is now;
http://www.wetcanvas.com/Community/images/25-Mar-2008/99680-PICT00012.JPG
I must admit that I am scared of the shirt and background. I don't know if I am suposed to put the patches of color on the shirt and then use one of those colors in the background?:eek:
Any thoughts?:)
I am still at the stage where I am counting, this is my 3rd portrait and self teaching can be difficult at times, I am thankful for this place!!!!!!
I think I can see some improvement.:D

Sharon :wave:

[!becca]

Hi, Sharon, thanks for the comment, I'll post an update tomorrow.
You have selected a challenging project. So far, you have made great progress. If I knew more myself I could answer your color composition question, someone else more experienced I am sure will. As for my opinion, you can do whatever you want. It probably would be a good idea to have some plan of color harmony, but patterned shirt or solid will work then decide on the background.

[dollardays]

I am finished with Taylor now. Got rid of the odd greenish shadow and unified the background a bit. Really happy with the skin tones for a change- maybe because I used linen instead of the regular cheap canvas so it was easier to blend. Not sure why they look better than usual.

http://www.wetcanvas.com/Community/images/26-Mar-2008/3589-Taylor-small.jpg

http://www.wetcanvas.com/Community/images/26-Mar-2008/3589-Taylor-detail2.jpg

[Mikjayfay]

Becca..really like your last SP...so much more than the earlier ones.

[Shelley P]

Here's my contribution to the March Gallery.
My daughters - 8x10" watercolours

Jennifer
wip - here (http://www.wetcanvas.com/forums/showthread.php?s=&threadid=486148)
http://www.wetcanvas.com/Community/images/26-Mar-2008/50468-Jennifer_500pix.jpg

Lindsay
wip - here (http://www.wetcanvas.com/forums/showthread.php?t=486379)
http://www.wetcanvas.com/Community/images/26-Mar-2008/50468-Lindsay_500pix.jpg

Shelley

[Bnsmalkin]

DollarDays - Just gorgous!!!!

Shelley - These are amazing!!!!!
I love that you were able to acheive Jennifers' freckles so successfully!!!!!
Also Lindseys' eyes and smile!!!!!!!!!!!!!

Sharon

[!becca]

Mikjayfay, thank you, I hope that I am improving.

Nora, nicely done.

Shelley, beautiful daughters.

I will post my finished sp tomorrow, maybe the lighting will be better, today it is dreadful.

[VeronicaF]

Pipe dream now finished:)
http://www.wetcanvas.com/Community/images/26-Mar-2008/100443-PICT4359.JPG

[!becca]

I have worked a bit with my camera so here are my update photos, first, I worked a bit on her face and like it better.

http://www.wetcanvas.com/Community/images/26-Mar-2008/100116-my_paintings_157_copy5.jpg

This one I think is finished,

http://www.wetcanvas.com/Community/images/26-Mar-2008/100116-my_paintings_0155.jpg

Comments are welcome.

[Anda G]

There are so many great pictures here.
I might get up the nerve to post my attempts in oil. I have a self-portrait study to do that was assigned for my homework. I haven't even started yet. :o

Andagail

[Bnsmalkin]

Becca:wave:
You are becoming an amazing artist and you inspire me. You are cranking out these terrific portraits. :clap: :clap:

Veronica:wave: You too, wow! You are moving along quickly. :thumbsup:

An update from me, ugh back grounds and such :(
http://www.wetcanvas.com/Community/images/26-Mar-2008/99680-PICT00071.JPG
http://www.wetcanvas.com/Community/images/26-Mar-2008/99680-PICT00051.JPG
Not sure how I feel about the color choices. :confused: I'll sit on it for a day and see if it grows on me. :) I am open to suggestions, I could call it an underpainting. :lol:

Sharon:wave:

[!becca]

Sharon, thanks for the complement,:) I have added lip highlights since posting, may post another pic later, this one did not have good contrast.

You have turned your portrait out so quickly,and it is a good likeness of your subject! :clap: By the way, the colors are good to me. :wave:

[moya]

This painting is almost finished. Just a few details must be done :) .

http://www.wetcanvas.com/Community/images/27-Mar-2008/91134-DSC_3399Bewerkt_naar_echte_kleur.jpg

Edith

[Lauren F-M]

Lauren, this caught my eye, because I did a portrait of a "Fallen Soldier" about a month ago. He was killed in Iraq last June. I will post it here. I was curious about whether you put the camauflage design on the uniform in your finished portrait. Where is your son stationed? It was nice of him to pose for your artist's class.
http://www.wetcanvas.com/Community/images/22-Mar-2008/70412-fallensoldier.jpg
I know I could've done a better job on the folds...any other C&Cs welcome!
Char

Hi, Charlotte,
Sorry for my tardy reply, but I haven't had a chance to get to this thread for a while. Lots going on!:clap: Bravo, everyone! :thumbsup:
Char, your portrait of the soldier is wonderful! :clap: So sad the lad was killed.
My son is in the Canadian army -- in the Reserves, so he does it here, on weekends and in the summer. He's also in university full time. The Canadian Reserves don't have to serve overseas (these days in Afghanistan) unless they choose to sign up for a tour. My son has been in the Reserves here in Canada's capital city for about 6 years, and for the past 3 summers was a Ceremonial Guard -- they wear the red serge and big bearskin hats and do the parade to the Parliament. This summer he's doing Master Corporal training. He talks about doing a tour overseas when he finishes his degree.
As for the camoflage -- they call it 'cad-pad' I think -- I am putting it in currently in this charcoal portrait (which I need to get finished for next week); not sure if I'll do a colour portrait of this pose, though I'd like to when I can find the time.

Erzsula -- wow! what a lovely painting! :thumbsup: I look forward to seeing more of your work on here!

Great work from you all! Sorry that I don't have the time (or the memory) to comment on everyone's right now. Hope to be more of a regular here in April. :D

Cheers, Lauren :wave:

[!becca]

Here it is, I know that I said it was finished before, but the mouth area just didn't look right. I am putting her away now because I am very tired of her.

http://www.wetcanvas.com/Community/images/27-Mar-2008/100116-my_paintings_003_copy5.jpg

Moya, Larubia, how you work on your paintings for extended periods impresses me, I tire of mine very quickly. Maybe it is because yours are just so darned good, they are easy to keep looking at.:D

Thanks for looking, comments welcome.

[lokeforrest]

Well I finally finished this one and have already started another for commission. I haven't taken any photos of the one as it is still in very early stages. My sister really did love this one though so I think I will have to get a print done at least to send her. She cried when she saw it ( not sure if i mentioned it but it is my sister and her son when he was 1 yr old.)

All of the portraits here and very impressive and as was already mentioned, the variety of style and medium is very enjoyable. I have really enjoyed following everyones work this month. :)

Lovely rendering...fantastic artwork. It is so realistic.

[Bnsmalkin]

:wave: Hi everyone.
I have done some minor tweaking and toning down of the background.

http://www.wetcanvas.com/Community/images/27-Mar-2008/99680-PICT00033.JPG
I think I will leave this as is and go ahead and date it. :D

I am not unhappy with the likeness or the time it took me. :D

Sharon :wave:

[!becca]

Sharon, you should be happy:thumbsup:

[eliza ollin]

Becca, the first thing I thought when I saw your latest was tiger! Very interesting pose and expression!

Still painting but barely even lurking these days, accidentally got way too busy...hope to be back on more soon...

[Bnsmalkin]

Edith
Your painting is just Gorgous!!!!

Becca
Thank you!!!

Sharon

[!becca]

Nice to hear from you Eliza, have missed your contribution. :) Have been refining my latest:eek: Look forward to seeing more of your paintings. Come back. :wave:

[CRYork]

This is a portrait of my husband that I just finished 2 days ago, just in time for his birthday. It took 7 hours to do his shirt (I gave him the shirt for Christmas). It's the first time I ever did a sky, clouds, or sunset....so I am pretty happy with it. There are a couple of goofs in the drawing, but I am not going to tell anyone about them!:)

This was done in colored pencil, and it is an 11x14.

http://www.wetcanvas.com/Community/images/28-Mar-2008/70412-davefinished2.jpghttp://www.wetcanvas.com/Community/images/28-Mar-2008/70412-DSC00201.JPG

There are so many wonderful portraits on this thread. I really enjoy looking at everyone's work.

Thanks, Lauren, for your compliment on my "Fallen Soldier" portrait and answering my questions about your son. I will be doing 2 more portrait commissions of soldiers in the near future, due to how this portrait turned out.

Thanks to the portraiture forum for giving us a thread to share our work, no matter what level of accomplishment that we are at.

Char

[larubia]

http://www.wetcanvas.com/Community/images/29-Mar-2008/75590-Picture201.jpg update from a few days ago..wrinkles added!

[!becca]

Larubia, wrinkles?!!

My highlights had faded quickly, so here it is with a retouch and a little face sculpting.

http://www.wetcanvas.com/Community/images/29-Mar-2008/100116-my_paintings_0035.jpg

Comments welcome.

[larubia]

http://www.wetcanvas.com/Community/images/29-Mar-2008/75590-Picture210.jpg He He Ibecca..got rid of the wrinkles..didn't like them!
Worked on the ear earring this afternoon and strengthening drawing in places...think I'm done with it now.
Ya portrait looks much better Ibecca!:thumbsup:

[Seveer]

Very nice work this month every one!!!!


This is what is currently on my easel.

Charlie at age 90.

8X10
Ampersand board
mostly new pastel and Derwent pencils so far...

[atont]

Cool stuff here - its terrific to be part of a community like this.

This is a pastel painting of my sister done last year sometime

http://www.wetcanvas.com/Community/images/29-Mar-2008/2469-sistersmaller.JPG

[Bnsmalkin]

Richard
This is wonderful!!!


atont
This is a beautiful portrait. I am sure your sister loved this. She is lovely.

Sharon

[Synthea]

I am making one of two required posts in this forum to put up a photo of a portrait work in progress. I am just delighted to have found this place and all of the wonderful and talented artists. :clap:

[Synthea]

Is it standard to post the photo of the subject with the painting? I see that some artists do and some dont. I have a feeling I will be spending a lot of my time here after my upcoming move is completed. It is so exciting to have stumbled onto this site. With so much to see and so many different resources, I dont see why I would need or want to go anywhere else...

Ok That is my second required post, here comes my work in progress...:lol:

[Synthea]

http://www.wetcanvas.com/Community/images/30-Mar-2008/135463-origpiclouise.jpg
http://www.wetcanvas.com/Community/images/30-Mar-2008/135463-weezie.jpg

People tend to feel that you have captured "them" in a portrait, when really the artist or photographer has no way of knowing who they really are. It seems the subjects always choose a photo or to do a sitting that presents a well packaged, on gaurd, masked version of themselves, however I do like to spend time with them to see them off gaurd to attempt to capture them off gaurd. Times are changing, people want a more realistic, relaxed and casual portrait. Even though some still desire the formal portraits of times past, I thrill to see the relaxed less powerful portraits. Oils on canvas, 20x24

[Bnsmalkin]

Synthea
What a first post!
You are very talented and I look forward to seeing more of your work.

Sharon

[!becca]

Laurbia, better without the wrinkles.

Richard, I really like the sketch.

Atont, beautiful.

Synthea, dramatic.

[!becca]

I decided to do what I have been wanting to do since I painted this one, darken her face. Light here is bad today so the whole pic is a little dark, but what do you think?

http://www.wetcanvas.com/Community/images/31-Mar-2008/100116-my_paintings_008_copy5.jpg

[Roxie Real]

You have fair skin becca, I would go with lighter colors. I like the dark background. Roxie

[!becca]

Thanks, Roxie, I am wanting to depict the face in shadow. That being said, more red is showing than I want, as she dries I hope that more of the blue shows. Thanks again.

[Jack Dawson]

First Post FTW

Yea 6 plus hours and still not done. Critiques welcome and wanted.

http://www.wetcanvas.com/Community/images/01-Apr-2008/136682-Guess_Who_WIP_2_by_BuddhaTeddy.jpg

[!becca]

Hi, I painted this little 8"x10" this morning. There is still a lot of glare from the wet paint.

http://www.wetcanvas.com/Community/images/01-Apr-2008/100116-my_paintings_0075.jpg

Thanks for looking, comments welcome.