April Monthly Portrait Challenge 2009

[Dana Design]

Greetings And A Warm Welcome to the April Monthly Portrait Challenge.

We hope all portrait painters will participate in the portrait challenge set out each month for you. To all, please feel free to ask for advice if needed and give praise to each participant as that is what spurs us on.

You can paint the entire portrait or just segments of it, i.e., lips, eyes, nose for those who want to increase their abilities in these areas.

Your studies can be of your own chosen medium, with the exception of digital work, and there is no time limit as the purpose is for you to gain experience and enjoyment from the challenge so do take your time as a month is a long time.

Backgrounds in the portrait are subject to the discretion of the individual but the subject MUST REMAIN as is.

You can ask for help along the way so don't hold back as we will all have some advice and tips and critiques to offer.

Push yourself to the limit and think of it as being in an art classroom.

Please post ALL of your work in this thread from start to finish! Have fun and we look forward to viewing your work.

This months subject is by:
Alexei Alexeivich Harlamoff (1848-1915)
"Portrait of a Peasant Girl"
Oil on canvas
13 1/2 x 10 inches (34.3 x 25.4 cm)
http://artrenewal.org/asp/database/image.asp?id=9919

AND, I've included a second painting should you wish to paint an additional one! I chose this for the transparency of the skin and the beautiful color he's used. It's by one of my favorite painters:
William Bouguereau (1825-1905)
Portrait de Gabrielle Cot [Portrait of Gabrielle Cot]
Oil on canvas, 1890
17 7/8 x 14 7/8 inches (45.5 x 38 cm)
http://www.artrenewal.org/asp/database/image.asp?id=1092
If you click on this portrait, you can increase the size and really study the colors in it.

[Dana Design]

Just wanted to add that those who paint loosely or want to paint loosely, this first painting would be a great choice, alla prima.

And for those who want more detail, the grisaille technique or a tighter technique, the second is a natural.

[kadon]

Great photos Dana.....the first one looks would be a great one for the pastellists. Would the dark tones....more noticable on the lip....would they be a green do you think? Kathy

[greywolf-art]

hmm, I'm too busy for an oil painting but I might just try the William Bouguereau in conte pastels, it would be an interesting challenge to get the subtlety of skin tones in pastels

[lilbelle]

I really enjoyed last months challenge so I think I will try the second one this month. I tend to paint a bit tighter so the Bouguereau really appeals to me. Wonderful choices Dana!

[Striver]

Challenge is right
Les

[ALBuslovich]

A fantastic challenge :clap:

[Dana Design]

Great photos Dana.....the first one looks would be a great one for the pastellists. Would the dark tones....more noticable on the lip....would they be a green do you think? Kathy

Kathy, I'm not including the dark mark on her lip. But that's just me. If I ever show it, I'd have to explain it a gazillion times. Been there, done that! :)

[Striver]

Dana
Bougie has and is very popular with WC partisipants, a lot of WIP and explanations of his methods. His skin translucently is amazing.

With the amount of knowledge and explanations, I wonder if all of this has been put in some sort of order for us mere mortals to mull over, and where would we find it. Is it at all possible that someone like Vigill Elliott would do a WIP for us, would be priceless for sure.
I have started reading up on the Flemish technique which i believe Bougie used.
I have cleared a space to have a go, but wonder at jumping such a hurdle, look at that skin, gobsmacking.
So any hints for us all on how to strive to achieve that will be helpful, are we into glazing here.
Couldnt sleep well so am up at 3 am. And am minding the Grandson so he will wear me out.
Cheers
Les
Che

[Striver]

George
If your still into minatures look up John Smart.
Les

[Dana Design]

Striver, I'm basically an alla prima painter so your guess is as good as mine. I've tried the layering technique but am rather impatient and hate waiting for paint to dry. I've also tried glazing but usually my color is too strong. I'm still working on that technique for skin tones.

I do, however, prepare my canvases now with a all over layer of a neutral warmer white, not dead white, so that I have that translucency shine through. I also think it is the colors surrounding the lights that add to the effect.

[Dana Design]

Striver, I'm basically an alla prima painter so your guess is as good as mine. I've tried the layering technique but am rather impatient and hate waiting for paint to dry. I've also tried glazing but usually my color is too strong. I'm still working on that technique for skin tones.

I do, however, prepare my canvases now with a all over layer of a neutral warmer white, not dead white, so that I have that translucency shine through. I also think it is the colors surrounding the lights that add to the effect.

[Striver]

How do you warm your white, touch of lemon perhaps?
Les

[VicFromBayville]

http://www.wetcanvas.com/Community/images/03-Apr-2009/181289-LidoComparison1.jpg

[Dana Design]

How do you warm your white, touch of lemon perhaps?
Les

Touch of Naples Yellow Light. Much warmer than lemon.

[kadon]

Thank you Dana for your reply to my question...also for the additional info regarding warm white etc.

And Vic. appreciate your demo. Kathy

[lilbelle]

I started working on mine yesterday. It's 9x11 in. acrylic on canvas board.
The first image is the underpainting :eek: I've never tried painting like this before, so I have no idea if it's going to work.
http://www.wetcanvas.com/Community/images/03-Apr-2009/103642-DSC02870.JPG

This is where I am now, after a couple of layers of paint.
http://www.wetcanvas.com/Community/images/03-Apr-2009/103642-DSC02872.JPG

[kadon]

Looking REAL good Lillian. Kathy

[Striver]

Dana, Oil or Acrylic?

[Striver]

Lillian, looking quite transparent already, good start.
Les

[arnoud3272]

Vic, Lilian,
what a flying start! and nice work.:thumbsup:
I have chosen the peasant girl, but not yet decided in what medium. I just started on the "underdrawing". I think Derwent Drawing pencils - as pioneered by Al (http://wetcanvas.com/forums/showthread.php?t=360882) - will keep the expressive character of the original. But not sure yet.

Cheers,
Arnoud

[kadon]

I drew a graph and then put in a bare outline to get everything in the right place.

http://www.wetcanvas.com/Community/images/04-Apr-2009/118422-P1010677.JPG

Kathy

[Grunge]

Lilbelle, this is looking wonderful!!

[Dana Design]

Dana, Oil or Acrylic?

Well, I paint in oil and my brand is W&N. I use Naples Yellow Light a lot for mixing.

[Dana Design]

Lilbelle! Wow, smacking good!

[greywolf-art]

Well, I paint in oil and my brand is W&N. I use Naples Yellow Light a lot for mixing.

LOL I don't think I could manage without my Naples yellow - its such a versatile colour to have for portraiture :)

[jocelynsart]

Lilbelle, those skin tones and the translucency you are getting is terrific!
Yes, Naples Yellow is a much needed colour for me for portraiture too. I don't know what I did without it till a yr or 2 ago.
Jocelyn

[VicFromBayville]

I have made the adjustments to place the features in better position and have added some color. So far I have not used any yellow at all - looks like the original has yellow and green here and there - I will attack that next.
I also think the left eye can still be lower (ear too) and the mouth is now too low.
http://www.wetcanvas.com/Community/images/04-Apr-2009/181289-Apr04pm.jpg
oil 16x20" on canvas pad. What would you do next? Thanks for comments.

[doctasi]

i'm about halfway on one and a fourth of the way on the other. Acrylic on paper. Doc
http://www.wetcanvas.com/Community/images/04-Apr-2009/135953-IMG_5552.jpg
http://www.wetcanvas.com/Community/images/04-Apr-2009/135953-IMG_5553.jpg

[doppler]

These are fantastic subjects.
I'll give it a go in watercolour ...
Love the work that has been shown already!

[lilbelle]

Thank you so much Kathy, Les, Arnoud, Theresa, Dana and Jocelyn for all the encouraging comments!
Looking good Vic! One thing I see that may need adjusting is the shoulder and bodice. They seem to be a bit low. Lovely skin tones and hair colour!
Wow Doc, great job on both of them already!

I worked on mine a bit more.
http://www.wetcanvas.com/Community/images/04-Apr-2009/103642-DSC02873.JPG

[Wyoron]

Here is my first attempt at this month challenge.

[kadon]

Wow! You guys are so quick! Kathy

[kadon]

Question! Do you use Naples Yellow instead of white? Kathy

[Barbie Bud]

I just loved the painting of the little girl, so I have started it. I can see that I did not tilt the head as much as I should have, her left eye is much too high. However I love the feel of it, still have the background and blouse to do and lot of small things on the face. I really just did it for myself but I thought I would share my progress with the group. Happy painting!http://www.wetcanvas.com/Community/images/04-Apr-2009/129955-IMG_1280.JPG

[lilbelle]

Great beginning on your two Ron!
Barbie, wonderful skin tones and her eyes are beautiful!

Just a quick update for tonight.
http://www.wetcanvas.com/Community/images/04-Apr-2009/103642-DSC02875.JPG

[kadon]

Beautiful Lillian...are you using black? Kathy

[MSegev]

Dana, you've picked fantastic references, a truly wonderful challenge! Thank you for making this thread so fascinating.

Unfortunately I won't be able to take an active part this month due to my insane work overload, and also because a week ago I've started working on a different Bouguereau painting for another thread. I absolutely adore Bouguereau's genius work and think you'll agree that even one is a handful to work on!

Libelle, this is acrylics? WOW!!! Excellent work.

[Dana Design]

Good start, Vic!

And Doc! Really looking beautiful! You've nailed the expressions.

[lilbelle]

Thank you Kathy and Mary!
Kathy, I used black and raw umber for the background and also in the hair.
I should be close to fininshing the dress today. I'm not sure if I need more layers on the face to cover up more of the underpainting?

[h2ocolorFun]

have been lurking in this thread for a few months and im amazed at the work in here.. wonderful!! so shaking in my boots, but going to give this a try.. first post of a painting on wc..

been enjoying learning about portraits for a less than a year..taking a face drawing class since jan, that has really helped . this is a combo of lightbox and free hand drawing..

i love watercolor and thought i'd give this a try... looking for ways to get better, as i really enjoy doing this and have 5 fun gkids with wonderful faces to pracitice with.. been having trouble loading, so here goes..

thanks for stopping by and thank you for any critiques you can offer..

[lilbelle]

Beautifully done in watercolour h2ocolorFun! Lovely skin tones and wonderfully painted!

[mack46]

This is a wonderful first post in WC. Your colors in the skin are amazing. Love how you showed her hair. Congrats and bravo to you girl.:clap:


:wave: mack46

[winecountry]

Some interesting work posted, enjoying watching the wip of the Boug

Pastel 8x10 sanded panel
http://www.wetcanvas.com/Community/images/05-Apr-2009/103030-pastel_0201.jpg
This is way out of my comfort zone, of smoother finish and more layers, it was soooo hard to just lay the stroke down and leave it, can't get a better likeness without overworking it, also did not have quite the right colors to get the bg, pastel is not mixable like paint

This one taught me how little work is really needed. I love this painter and I'm going to look for more of his work if someone has a link. Also odd for me this time is the perspective of looking down a the subject, Sargent did several lovely works from this view, I always figured it was because he was tall
__________________

[lilbelle]

Oh wow colleen, that is gorgeous! I love the bold strokes of pastel. the expression is perfect!

Well, I think I am finished unless anyone sees anything that still needs work.

http://www.wetcanvas.com/Community/images/05-Apr-2009/103642-DSC02879.JPG

I really enjoyed trying this different approach with the colourful underpainting. I don't know how successful I was but it was interesting :thumbsup:

[doctasi]

I would say you were very successful, lilbelle. Beautiful.

[kadon]

Lovely Lillian....and thanks for your reply to my question. Kathy

[winecountry]

thanks Lillian, you did a great job on that, sets the bar high...

[lilbelle]

Thank you so much Doc, Kathy and Colleen! :)
Kathy and Doc, I'm looking forward to seeing your progress!

[Lulu]

Wowee, fabulous work here everyone!!
Am keen to give this a go too.

Lillian, would you mind sharing your flesh palette please? I find it really hard to get that light translucent glow to the flesh that Bouguereau has in his portraits.

[lilbelle]

Lulu, the colours I used for the underpainting were Liquitex cerulean blue, prism violet, hookers green, arylide yellow and system 3 process magenta. For the glazes I used the process magenta, arylide yellow medium and tit. white. For the shadow areas I added either burnt sienna or raw umber. I wish I had used this technique when we painted "The Knitter". Hope you paint this one also!

[Lulu]

thank you Lillian, I don't have Liquitex but will find similar in my Atelier interactives. I certainly want to give Bouguereau another go, just adore his work.
Your process has been very successful. I like that you have not gone too dark with the underpainting, which I can tend to do. I also love the way you have 'suggested' the lace.

[Dana Design]

winecountry, the link is on the first post of this thread. Just explore from there.

Lilbelle, that's BEAUTIFUL!

[h2ocolorFun]

thank you lilbell and mack for your nice comments. i had fun giving this a try... :)

is there anything i can change or to make it better??? would appreciate any and all critiques.. thank you:angel:

you are all doing fantastic.. i'm really enjoying the different styles and mediums....

[arnoud3272]

Hi George,
I hope you recovered completely.

All the best,
Arnoud

[TheBaron]

Great photos Dana.....the first one looks would be a great one for the pastellists. Would the dark tones....more noticable on the lip....would they be a green do you think? Kathy
You'll be suprised to know its orangey/grey Kathy.

http://www.wetcanvas.com/Community/images/07-Apr-2009/107353-Untitled-1.jpg

[TheBaron]

Hi George,
I hope you recovered completely.

All the best,
Arnoud

How do Arnie

Its just a reoccurence of an progressive nature.:(

Thanks

[Striver]

welcome back George
Les

[TheBaron]

welcome back George
Les

Ta Les :thumbsup:

[kadon]

Yes George...welcome back...didn't know you were unwell. And thank you for answer to my green query. Kathy

[kadon]

This is my update WIP. Doing a larger head study than originally posted.
Labouring on.....

http://www.wetcanvas.com/Community/images/07-Apr-2009/118422-WIP.jpg

Kathy

[jlberry]

Hello All…I drew her in 2007 and will draw her again in the future…this was one of my first drawings and several mistakes…I am a big Bouguereau fan and want to copy some of his other works.

Graphite and charcoal…Fabriano Ingres ivory…12x19.



http://www.wetcanvas.com/Community/images/08-Apr-2009/91040-cot.jpg (http://www.wetcanvas.com/Community/Uploader/upload_image_save2.php#)

[gingersnap]

http://www.wetcanvas.com/Community/images/08-Apr-2009/104994-DSC_0064.JPG

new to pastels. canson ,art spectrum pastels

[joolee]

Crikey, where is the month going to? There are some fab postings on here already. I don't want to be last in again! I want to have a go at the second one as I need to try to be braver with the pastel colours.
Jools

[joolee]

This is my first ever attempt at slapping the pastels on and not blending. It was so counter-intuitive for me but strangely quite liberating. I'm not sure it is really my thing but here it is anyway.


http://i163.photobucket.com/albums/t284/smashersasha/paintings2009044.jpg

Jools

[lilbelle]

Thank you Lulu and Dana for the comments on mine! :)

Kathy, she is coming along beautifully, I love the skin tones!
Jeff, wow the skin looks so smooth and polished. Great work!
Wonderful job Gingersnap! I love the strokes of red in her hair. It's hard to believe you are new to pastels! :thumbsup:
Joolee, great job on getting the likeness! It looks like your thing, well done!

[jlberry]

Hey…Lillian…yours is beautiful I envy anyone that can use a brush

Kathy...Gingersnap...Jools all are great...Jools I sure understand about not blending pastels...I think maybe it is just a rumor that you can do that...:)

Thanks Dana for introducing Alexei Harlamoff...I had never heard of him so I looked him up...what a wonderful painter...I really like many of the Russian painters in that time frame...classical.

[Addy]

That Bouguereau was already in my "to copy" list, so I'm going to attempt it now for this Month's Challenge. I hope I don't embarrass myself too badly.

[doctasi]

Everyone's work is looking great.
I'm almost done.
I really like painting the younger girl more.
http://www.wetcanvas.com/Community/images/08-Apr-2009/135953-IMG_5622.jpg
http://www.wetcanvas.com/Community/images/08-Apr-2009/135953-IMG_5624.jpg

[kadon]

Looking really good doc.
And the pastels are great not to mention the drawing. What a variety of talent. Kathy

[MSegev]

Wow, great work everybody!

Kathy, great study! I think you've captured the expression well and the likeness is very good. You may want to adjust her left eye. Looking forward to your progress!

Doctasi, wow, you're doing them both and both looks great. It does feel that you like painting the second more, perhaps because that's closer to your individual style. The little girl is looking beautiful, very good likeness (perhaps you'd want to soften up the neck line a little bit).

Joolee, it's wonderful, and you're natural! But I do hope that you'll add some contrast to the face.

[kadon]

Mary...I'm very glad you looked in. I truly appreciate your assessments. They help enormously. Kathy

[greywolf-art]

Doesn't look like I'm going to have time to do this now after all, I've just taken on another portrait commision, I've got an open studio exhibition at the end of the month, and I've just been asked to do a short article for Artists & Illustrators magazine so I'm kinda swamped now !!

[joolee]

Msegev, you are absolutely right that more contrast is needed. I'm back to the values thing again. Even with me pressing down like mad and not blending, I'm not getting it right - I'm choosing too pale a palatte. I can see the lovely colours in Doctasi and Gingersnaps versions and I can see they have so much more presense. I have made a few adjustments here. In fact, I put loads more colour on - still looks pasty on the screen though :confused: .

http://i163.photobucket.com/albums/t284/smashersasha/paintings2009045.jpg

Jools

[winecountry]

great work doc, esp on the young girl, you really got all the nuances,

Jools, just to stretch, you might like to try her again using only monochrome, here is a greyscale in case you want to play, don't worry over details just try for the value, it may nudge you deeper. As one who has struggled with values for years, take it from me you will never get to them by using color, doing value sketches will begin to train your eye more, another help may be to get one of those little value scales that let you compare a color with the greyscale,
see photo, I got mine from Jerry'sartarama.
I put it in greyscale for you here
http://www.wetcanvas.com/Community/images/09-Apr-2009/103030-Harlamoff__greyPeasant_Girl.jpg
BTW I always put my ref in greyscale as well as looking at the color, so I have a guide, then I put the darkest dark and lightest light in somewhere to give me an idea of the range. We have far fewer values to use as artists than the eye sees, so there has to be some compression. Sargent following his teacher used a system of only 5 values in his portraits......So you have to do the famous "squint down" to simplify what you see.

greyscale finder.
you use this by holding it up against the color, can be at arms lenght, squinting your eyes and finding the proper value where the color blends into the grey bar, I have mine numbered backwards from an earlier color system, now I use Munsell and so the numbers would be right as printed, so just ignore that.
http://www.wetcanvas.com/Community/images/09-Apr-2009/103030-IMG_9031.jpg

hope this helps

[Wyoron]

This is my second upload for this challenge, more to come.
Ron

[nanaj]

I'm on vacation without my pastels, so tried to do the challenge with pencil. There are adjustments that need to be made, but it's too late. Maybe I'll try again when I get home and can use
pastels.
http://www.wetcanvas.com/Community/images/09-Apr-2009/117752-young_lady.jpg

[Striver]

Hi all:clap:
Call it on this one, Pastel on sugar paper which wont take any more, no more time for it anyway. Still working on gabriel when I can fit it in.
C&C most welcome.
regards
Les:wave:

[kadon]

Jools, I have taken the liberty of reposting here from March this response on the April thread. It could be of interest to everyone and perhaps Dana or George could elaborate. You ask....

"Why are most people so keen on getting their work to look exactly like the original? I absolutely LOVE the fact that they don't look like the original."

Jools, as I understand the requirement of this thread, we cannot avoid striving for our work to look exactly like the original because we are studying the Old Masters styles, tones, colours et al. Although it is a copy the main purpose is to imitate these things. It's a teaching process.
I am often tempted to give my own version, but I would not be joining in to the learning experience of learning a different approach from great artists.

My question is: Can one be too intent on studying in such detail?

Kathy
__________________

[doppler]

This is a try in watercolours. Very hard to get the translucency/depth that oils can get in this one and colours in her skin.... well really! Used a different technique to the purple underpainting way ... used the 3 primaries wet on wet - alizarin crimson, cobalt blue and azo yellow. A little bit of purple did creep in later. The background was alizarin/cobalt purple, then a wash of sepia (which also crept onto the face) then a wash of anthroquinone blue. Bit of permanent red for the lips.
Mixed make of colours and A3 Arches CP

http://www.wetcanvas.com/Community/images/09-Apr-2009/141006-Portrait-1-wc-WC.jpg

[winecountry]

fabulous Annie, what you did with the watercolor is amazing.

[MSegev]

Kathy, I agree with your notion. My understanding of the "Portrait Challenge" and as stated by the moderators, is to paint the subject as "is", namely painting a "particular person" with a specific expression in a specific pose, regardless of the medium used, as opposed to painting just anybody.
As for being too intent on studying in such detail, I think it would depend on the type of detail. Good likeness seems critical in portraiture. Can one be too intent on painting a particular person/expression, contrary to painting that same person with every bump, pimple, scar, etc.

Ron, I like your style and work, even if the drawing is a bit off.
Nanaj, nice work, very pleasant edges, you seem to be natural at this.
Les, beautiful expression! I like the look on the girl's face, reminds me of my daughter when she was little.
Annie, beautiful work! Watercolor painters with a distinct delicate style always amaze me.

[doppler]

Thank you ... for me the joy is about a challenge to my chosen medium ... it is hard to get darks ... it is hard to first see and then blend the colours without the "mud" ... which to me means just overworked. .. which to me means overbrushed.
These challenges teach control of pigment and water (or whatever) and thought. :confused: Last is hardest :evil:
I love it! :clap:

[VicFromBayville]

http://www.wetcanvas.com/Community/images/10-Apr-2009/181289-April9snap.jpg
This one is a struggle for me. I still do not have the 'mask' at the right angle and the ear needs to be moved. Then on to the color and edge work.

[arnoud3272]

Lillian - beautiful skin tones
Colleen - very nice rendition, you got the right atmosphere
h2ocolourFun - you got the character right
Barbie - beautiful expression
Ron - I grew up with abstract expressionism, so I like your interpretation. But I fear not many women will commission a portrait with you.
Jools - lovely face
nanaj - lovely expression in the eyes
Annie - beautiful face
Les - sweet eyes
Kathy, doctasi - looking forward to your update
Nice work everywhere :clap:

[arnoud3272]

Here is my entry
Derwent Drawing Pencils, width about 22 cm.

http://www.wetcanvas.com/Community/images/10-Apr-2009/142886-Peasant_Girl.jpg

Thanks for looking.

[Wyoron]

Dana, thankyou for this months challenge, it was a lot of fun and there are many great artists in this group.
Ron

[arnoud3272]

Hi Ron,
Nice final entry. I did not realize your previous entry was still a wip. As a matter of fact I prefer your previous entry, particularly the Boug copy. It had a much stronger impact, artistically speaking.

Cheers,
Arnoud

[einna]

After a long time, i was browsing this forum.... and saw the girl Dana has brougt as a ref to paint. I just love this girl, didn't have much time so i just sketched her with my sticks. Free hand, i see, i missed the angel of the head and please, critique if something else got out of wack. Woww... i've seen all of the sketches and paintings....gosh... some are so good...and all the entries are interesting. I might try her with digis... or acrylics... if time permits... but now... here she is.
Thank you for looking. Interesting thread.
http://www.wetcanvas.com/Community/images/10-Apr-2009/40899-teenager1fghi.jpg

[doppler]

Heres a shot at the second portrait ... done mostly with a flat brush and I tried to be loose. Not sure that it works ... but there's the challenge
A3 Arches CP and assorted brands of colour

http://www.wetcanvas.com/Community/images/10-Apr-2009/141006-Russian-girl-wc-wc.jpg

Shee needs more colour on her lips :(

[Barbie Bud]

This is my finished painting of the Peasant Girl. I didn't try to copy it exactly and I know the tilt of the head is off, I just love the image and wanted to paint it. Maybe next month I will really make an effort to copy the challenge as close as I can. I am happy with this though and it was fun to paint. http://www.wetcanvas.com/Community/images/10-Apr-2009/129955-IMG_1286.JPG

[doppler]

Is the human eye not amazing!!!?

One reference and there are a myriad of absolutely beautiful interpretations .... all of them are beautiful!!!! :clap:

Thanks to this forum for fostering this!!!

[MSegev]

Wow, fantastic work! Wish I could find time for either of the references.

Ron, what a dramatic improvement from your last post!
Vic, very dramatic colors! I think what's missing is a slight adjustment between the eyes and the nose.
Arnoud, am I mistaken or this is the first "color" work you've posted here? It's great!
Einna, Annie and Barb, so lovely!

[mimitabby]

If it's not too late, I would like to try doing at least one of these portraits. I just read all the posts from the beginning and feel like the first guy that posted a WIP with positional lines did us all a great service. I think I will do the same thing.
It is fascinating to see how many different ways these are being portrayed; the people just armed with pencil are rendering portraits as beautiful as those using oil paints.

[wal_t]

Done with acrylic, 3 colors plus black and white, cotton canvas 40 * 30. Regards, Walter

[mimitabby]

This is so clean and bright! I like your interpretation very much wal_t! It looks like you paint with a lot of confidence.

[joolee]

Colleen, thank you so much for your suggestion about the monochrome - I can see how this would be helpful to me and I shall give it a try. In fact, I think my version is darker in real life than in the photo and once I had sprayed it, it became darker still, so I'm fairly happy with it. I know I still have a problem with values though, and I'm working hard on this. I have just started a new portrait where I have laid down really vibrant colours to start off with. I daren't post it yet as it looks pretty hideous to me at the moment :o .

Kathy, I didn't at all mean to be agressive or controversial when I asked why people were so concerned about getting their image to look like the original in the March thread. That wasn't my intention at all and if that is the way it came across, I apologise. In fact, I was responding to a couple of postings which appeared to be almost apologetic that their works weren't indentikits and I was trying to celebrate the fact that people were interpreting the image in different ways. I can't see how you can create an image that is the same if you are making a pencil copy of an oil painting, for example.

I feel that we all take what we need from these challenges. This month, I accept that my own aim was to create something that looked as close as possible to the original. My aim was based on my own need to sort out my problem with colours and values. However, I am hoping that I might be able to be more creative in the future and break away from simply trying to copy exactly the month's subject matter. If we want to create an image that is close to the original as possible, then perhaps we should say this in our postings, so that others can help us get to where we want to go(?).

There are some fab images in this thread. Barbie, Doppler, Einna & Arnaoud - I really like all of these interpretions - all so expressive and competently done and all so different in approach and medium. Love the colours in your version, Doppler. Vic, this was well worth the struggle!

Jools

[arnoud3272]

Arnoud, am I mistaken or this is the first "color" work you've posted here? It's great!
Hi Mary,
Thank you for your encouragement. I am partly color blind, this tutorial (http://wetcanvas.com/forums/showthread.php?t=360215) teaches it in a kind of monochrome approach, using the colors for their greyscale value, a bit as using hard and soft graphite pencils.

Cheers,
Arnoud

[mimitabby]

http://www.wetcanvas.com/Community/images/11-Apr-2009/73379-april114.jpg

okay, I've done some preliminary pencil sketches. Next out comes the watercolor paper. I really want this face to come out looking cute rather than sophisticated. There's a roughness in the way my faces come out that I am trying to work on.

[arnoud3272]

Jools - thank you for your kind comments.
If I may join in the discussion on exact copying, imo it shows when one tries too hard, the strokes become stiff. One could aim at it as a technical exercise, but the result will be exactly that: technical.

Walter - loose and bold strokes - I love it :clap:
Annie (einna) - lovely expression :thumbsup:

Cheers,
Arnoud

[mimitabby]

This is the first time I've ever copied a painting. There was a strange split in my head, part of me wanting to COPY COPY COPY and this other part of me saying, well that's practically paint by number... So then I rebelled and started using all sorts of crazy colors. Her hair is purple and orange, and I put blue, purple and green all over her face. And green gold! well, you can see, it's not great; but I met my objective, she is "cute"
thanks C & C appreciated.

http://www.wetcanvas.com/Community/images/11-Apr-2009/73379-peasantgirl116.jpg

[doppler]

That's a great interpretation Mimi! :clap:
Wal T .. that is so clean and beautiful!:thumbsup:

[arnoud3272]

Mimi - Very personal and contemporary style without losing the likeness. I love it.

Cheers,
Arnoud

[kadon]

Jools...what you said was fine. I just wanted to clarify for myself whether all my striving to imitate the Old Master was in vain. I agree there are fabulous renditions here....perhaps it doesn't matter after all. Lovely work you are doing. Kathy

[Lowe]

Hello

This is my first attempt at portrait.

So a I will try a quick sketch.

Lowe

[Lowe]

Thank you for the project. The peasant girl picture is enchanting.

Here is my first attempt at a sketch.

Currently she appears to have a moustache. I am going to try another sketch from the black and white image and then perhaps a watercolour.

http://www.wetcanvas.com/Community/images/12-Apr-2009/184661-Image-001.jpeg

Please let me have your critical comments.

Lowe :)

[mimitabby]

Lowe,
you definitely caught those eyes. The shading is great too. Keep going.

[Dana Design]

To clarify the point of copying an original Master, it's to broaden and teach us a new technique that we can later interpret if we choose into our own paintings. I've copied Rembrandt, for example, and used the techniques here and there for a more interesting look to my work. It was a challenge but I learned much from it.

As you can see from the two choices this month, one is loosely rendered and the Bougie is tightly rendered. As I paint rather tightly, painting the Harmaloff is good practice for me to loosen up just a wee bit.

The work here is so very good and I'm enjoying watching everyone's progress. And, I guess, that's what it's all about...progress, stretching, polishing our techniques.

[arnoud3272]

Currently she appears to have a moustache.

Hi Lowe,

Your exploratory sketch is very good. As to the tuft of hair on her right cheek, I erased it immediately after sketching it in. I see some other participants left it out also, or only suggested it very lightly.

Cheers,
Arnoud

[lneustadter]

http://www.wetcanvas.com/Community/images/12-Apr-2009/41206-AprilPortraitChallenge.jpg

I really enjoyed this challenge. This little girl is very appealing. My drawing is black and white charcoal on gray paper. Critiques are welcomed.

The drawings and paintings in this thread are inspiring!

[mimitabby]

To clarify the point of copying an original Master, it's to broaden and teach us a new technique that we can later interpret if we choose into our own paintings. I've copied Rembrandt, for example, and used the techniques here and there for a more interesting look to my work. It was a challenge but I learned much from it.

As you can see from the two choices this month, one is loosely rendered and the Bougie is tightly rendered. As I paint rather tightly, painting the Harmaloff is good practice for me to loosen up just a wee bit.

The work here is so very good and I'm enjoying watching everyone's progress. And, I guess, that's what it's all about...progress, stretching, polishing our techniques.
Dana, thank you. I appreciate the explanation. Now for some of us, we have to go one further, interpreting oil into watercolors, or pastels, or...?

And your intent had good results with me. I was only able to do tight for so long... and then :evil: I just couldn't anymore. :clap: :clap:
THANK YOU.

[doctasi]

Well......I finished this one. I don't really know if it's technical copy or interpertation. I just know it's done. Just some small changes from the last post. Everyone's work looks great. Doc
http://www.wetcanvas.com/Community/images/12-Apr-2009/135953-IMG_5822.jpg

[arnoud3272]

Well......I finished this one. I don't really know if it's technical copy or interpertation.
Hi Doc,
Beautiful work:clap:!

No doubt about it, your personal approach is apparent:

http://www.wetcanvas.com/Community/images/12-Apr-2009/142886-cmp.jpg

I love it,

Cheers,
Arnoud

[arnoud3272]

Nice drawing, Laurei, you caught her character very well :thumbsup:.

Cheers,
Arnoud

[kadon]

Thanks Dana. I have the opposite problem...painting loosely. Am well out of my comfort zone trying to learn from doing Gabrielle....but will persevere.
The work shown here is outstanding. Kathy

[kadon]

Decided to work on this crop only. This part of the face..nose, eyes, particular tonings of reference was more in the nature of a study. Critiques most welcome. The ear and externals are left unfinished.

http://www.wetcanvas.com/Community/images/12-Apr-2009/118422-wip.jpg

Kathy

[garciabrothers]

Mimi in Watercolor posted one of these pieces and said it was a challenge. I was impressed with Mimi's piece and since I am looking for a direction I thought it would be fun to try myself.

Dana, excellent choice in these 2 works. I went for the loose image because I know the Bougie would defeat me as he has done before; I get frustrated by the control because I am a loose cannon at heart.

So, it's the beautiful Harlamoff that I printed out. And how much fun was she to draw! I don't know why I am so amazed at learning how the old Masters plied their craft, but I am. I had this "Aha!" with The Girl with the Pearl Earring" too. Why is drawing portraits from the Masters so much more fun than drawing your own stuff?

For this girl, though, she is so young and has that baby fat so I knew where her cheek bone was but saw nothing to indicate it in the portrait. I wanted to put the bone in and I see a few did. Also I want to put more definition in the face near the right side of the mouth which would shave off the baby fat. And the height of that hair! I put in what I thought was the top of her skull. Not high enough. Moved it up. Not high enough. Now I have it in the position as the artist and it looks correct! Did anyone else have this too, or is it that you are more experienced than I.

I haven't put paint yet, but it will be watercolor. Thanks for the fun, and I hope it's OK to just join into your group.

[lilbelle]

Great to see your finished piece Doc! She turned out beautifully! Wonderful features and I love your treatment of her lacey dress.
Wonderful tight crop Kathy! Lovely job on the translucent skin tones. Well done!

[Lulu]

What wonderful work here! congratulations to you all! love all the different interpretations.

Here's my very modern-day peasant girl lol
I just needed to have a play after a very busy w/end.
Alla prima 9x12" on canvas, Artisan w/m oils.

C&C welcome!

http://www.wetcanvas.com/Community/images/12-Apr-2009/1118-PeasantGirl2aa.jpg

[joolee]

Lowe, this has a definite Leonardo look about it; Laurel, I find this to be a very strong piece (from which I can learn something about values!); Doctasi, definitely your own - love the skin tones; Kathy, I would never have thought of doing htis myself but I really like the crop and the skin tones are fab & Lulu, the contemporary approach works really well.

Jools

[kadon]

Thank you Lillian and Jools for your kind encouragement. Kathy

[MSegev]

Kathy, it's definitely her, fantastic job!

[MSegev]

Laurel, what a beautiful drawing!
Doc, great job!
Mimi, what can I say, you are natural!

[kadon]

Thanks Mary...I worked on her left eye as you suggested....I hope I got it right. Kathy

[arnoud3272]

Kathy - I like how you changed the composition by cropping, and the differentiated detailing

Lulu - cute contemporary girl, nicely done :thumbsup:

Cheers,
Arnoud

[arnoud3272]

Thanks for the fun, and I hope it's OK to just join into your group.
I have no authority at all in this thread, just a participant, but yes you are very welcome to join in.

Cheers,
Arnoud

[Dana Design]

garciabrothers...jump in with both feet! :D

[gertswerks]

Is this where I post my response to the monthly portrait challenge? This will be my first portrait post. Colored pencil on Bristle Board 12x14. I appreciate your comments and suggestions. Gerthttp://www.wetcanvas.com/Community/images/13-Apr-2009/183344-BougereauStudyGabrielle.jpg

[einna]

What a wonderful threat, this is kind of thing i am enjoying very much. Time permiting, will try the other girl also.

Very nice paintings, sketches and all so different.
Lulu, i like your B. girl, i thing he would love her also... she is completely yours...:-)

Am still looking forward to more of works...

[Dana Design]

Terrific progress by everyone! I'm struggling with the Harmaloff. Will post when I'm halfway there.

[maw-t]

http://www.wetcanvas.com/Community/images/13-Apr-2009/76639-copy1.jpg
I hope I am not too late! I LOVED this painting...I saw this several days ago & got started, but then had to leave town... I am SO impressed with everybodys work!!:clap: This was a challenge indeed.. I normally like to paint loose so this painting appealed to me most, however I might give the other a try too if have time.. thanks for this thread!!

[mimitabby]

Maw-T that is VERY COOL! I like your looseness andy our colors. your skin colors, great job! :clap: :clap: :clap:

[ThreeWolves]

Maw, that is amazing

[maw-t]

Thanks so much Mimi & shaun! Appreciate the kind words! Didnt mention..It is soft pastels on black suede mat board about 16 x 20.

[kadon]

Yes Maw...you always come out tops. Luv your stuff. Kathy

[arnoud3272]

Gertrude - I like your elongated style. Reminds me of Modigliani.
T - Your loose style is very much in line with the subject, nice artwork.

Cheers,
Arnoud

[gertswerks]

Thanks for your comments Arnoud. Gertrude

[mimitabby]

Gertrude - I like your elongated style. Reminds me of Modigliani.
T - Your loose style is very much in line with the subject, nice artwork.

Cheers,
Arnoud

Yes! I couldn't put my finger on it. That's exactly what it reminds me of too. And I think you did a great job here.

[Dana Design]

maw-T! It's beautiful! I love what you've done here. I am strugging with mine and trying to get her from age 30 down to around 9.

Yours is indeed well done!

[mimitabby]

maw-T! It's beautiful! I love what you've done here. I am strugging with mine and trying to get her from age 30 down to around 9.

Yours is indeed well done!
Aging faces is something I tend to do too. And after studying the peasant girl, it seemed that her eyes were really red and puffy in the original painting but somehow she looked young, healthy and bright. That was a trick to re-portray.

[TheBaron]

maw-T! It's beautiful! I love what you've done here. I am strugging with mine and trying to get her from age 30 down to around 9.


Well lets see it then?

[garciabrothers]

maw-t, smashing finish to yours. Everyone's work is so good that I am intimidated but I'm posting anyway.

[mimitabby]

You made this more like a watercolor should be. Glowing skin tones. Nice job.

[maw-t]

Thanks yall... :)

Dana, I hear ya.. that youthful innocence that He captured so well, is amazing & TOUGH, I missed it by a few years too... yes, let us SEE yours..!

Gert, I really love your interpretation.. would hang this one.

NIce water color .. I have never tried that medium... have heard it is very difficult!

Some truely amazing paintings.. but I am afraid I would miss someone, so wont try to comment on each one.. a big group HOORAY will suffice hopefully!!

[arnoud3272]

Everyone's work is so good that I am intimidated but I'm posting anyway.
Hi,
No need to be intimidated at all. Your rendition captures the spirit of this "portrait" perfectly.:clap:
"Portrait" quoted because I read in the cataloque raisonné (http://www.harlamoff.org/EN_joomla/index.php) that his paintings of young girls are made up, they do not portrait a particular sitter.

Cheers,
Arnoud

[Dana Design]

Hi,
No need to be intimidated at all. Your rendition captures the spirit of this "portrait" perfectly.:clap:
"Portrait" quoted because I read in the cataloque raisonné (http://www.harlamoff.org/EN_joomla/index.php) that his paintings of young girls are made up, they do not portrait a particular sitter.

Cheers,
Arnoud

Truly amazing! No sitters! Just pure talent.

[Addy]

I'm trying to do the Bouguereau, but I'm not sure as how to proceed. I've done some reading on his methods and techniques, but I'm not sure if I should do a grisaille, as he apparently didn't always do it. How's everyone else doing it?

My original plan was to do it directly, but I suppose I'd better do a grisaille, and try to do it as Virgil Elliott described in his book about Old Masters techniques, with a higher chroma layer for the skintones, and then a lower chroma velatura on top of that.

What about the background? It seems there's quite a bit of layering going on there too, with a brownish underlayer, then a bluish grayish scumble over it? Is anyone else interpreting that the same as I am?

[h2ocolorFun]

thank you dana for the wonderful challenges this month..:clap:
eveyones paintings are wonderful!! love seeing the different styles.. i'm so jealous and need to work lots harder to keep up....:)

i did the other one first, as i'm a tight painter.. and after reading your thoughts, decided to try this one!! thinking maybe it will help me get a bit looser.. WRONG!!!

here is the first lady, after a little bubble bath...:lol:

any critique is always welcomed and appreciated..
thank you for your earlier comments and stopping by again!!

[mringey]

Wow, great thread. All of these renditions are beautiful.

Garciabrothers the colors are gentle and beautiful skin!
h20Colorfun the style is very clean and fresh looking.

Here's my version of the 1st girl. Boy, I honestly think it would take way more patience and time than I have to copy every stroke and detail. So, here it is, I tried to keep it loose and yet similar to the overall pose.

Pastels on Canson.

http://www.wetcanvas.com/Community/images/14-Apr-2009/78516-Peasant_Girl_MR_sized.jpg

[maw-t]

I'm trying to do the Bouguereau, but I'm not sure as how to proceed. I've done some reading on his methods and techniques, but I'm not sure if I should do a grisaille, as he apparently didn't always do it. How's everyone else doing it?

My original plan was to do it directly, but I suppose I'd better do a grisaille, and try to do it as Virgil Elliott described in his book about Old Masters techniques, with a higher chroma layer for the skintones, and then a lower chroma velatura on top of that.

What about the background? It seems there's quite a bit of layering going on there too, with a brownish underlayer, then a bluish grayish scumble over it? Is anyone else interpreting that the same as I am?

Hi... I dont know the answer to your question, but Took a look at some of your work & looking forward to your participation:thumbsup: ... a WIP would be nice to see!

[maw-t]

Melissa this is fabulous! You caught her youthful innocence, Beautiful pastel work!:thumbsup:

H2.. This is fresh (as a bubble-bath:wink2: ) and nicely drawn... :thumbsup: :thumbsup:

[mringey]

Thanks Maw-T,

Your pastel rendition is amazing! All of those strokes and the tones in the skin are beautiful!

[MSegev]

Thanks to the Passover Holiday, I got a chance to give it a try after all. You all did such a great and inspiring job with both references.

This time I wanted to try something completely different for me, and the Peasant Girl was just "it". I don't think I've ever painted this loose in my entire life. I probably went too wild with the brush here, even for Mr. Harlamoff.

oil on canvas 20x30cm
http://www.wetcanvas.com/Community/images/14-Apr-2009/178320-harlamoff_test1.jpg

[MSegev]

Melissa, your rendition is outstanding. I really thought this reference would be perfect for pastel and you took the challenge and passed it with flying colors. Your reading of colors and value is masterful, great job!

[Lulu]

oh wow, what a feast for the eyes here!!! Just so enjoying everyone's interpretations!
Thanks for comments on mine.

[arnoud3272]

So, here it is, I tried to keep it loose and yet similar to the overall pose.

You definitely succeeded in your aim. Beautiful work :clap:

h2ocolorFun - Nicely done :thumbsup: I like how you suggested her hairdo.

I don't think I've ever painted this loose in my entire life. I probably went too wild with the brush here, even for Mr. Harlamoff.
You have the knack to copy faithfully, even when "going wild". I don't think at all that this is too loose, it matches the subject very well :clap:

Cheers,
Arnoud

[garciabrothers]

Mary, would not consider your portait loose. It is stunning though and I first thought it was the artist's original.

H2, fun hair! I like your personal spin.

Melissa, smashing portrait!

[mringey]

Mary, I thought it was the original at first as well. Beautiful skin and I love the lips. Great work!

[mimitabby]

Yes, so far Mary's is the closest to the original. You got the shading right without making her neck look dirty (IMHO the neck looks dirty in the original)
Melissa, yours is very lovely
H2O, you are in the camp of no hair hanging on the right of the face. I would have liked to have seen more shading in the throat/neck, and you have one little curl that unfortunately meets her chin line, if you could move that, the connection between the head and neck would look better.

[doctasi]

I'm done with this one and I liked doing it better than the other one. And..wow, all these beautiful paintings that everyone has posted are great.
http://www.wetcanvas.com/Community/images/15-Apr-2009/135953-IMG_5826.jpg

[h2ocolorFun]

thanks everyone for the good suggetions and comments... i see that curl line, now that you mention it..LOL it will be moved!!! thanks and the neck shaded a bit more...
love the pastels.. you guys are awesome and i'm in awe of the oils.
thanks again for the help!!
will keep watching and hopefully learning!!

[mringey]

Wow doctasi, this is great! Will the real original please stand up? This is another really close copy. You've really captured the values. :clap:

[Lulu]

Incredible stuff here!:clap:

and it encouraged me to play with mine a bit more, added darks, changed the hair etc
Can't get the mouth right though!

http://www.wetcanvas.com/Community/images/15-Apr-2009/1118-PeasantGirlApril2009aa.jpg

[mimitabby]

the mouth you painted is great! what's wrong with it? This is your interpretation. And you painted a beautiful mouth.

[Lulu]

thank you Mimi. Yes, it is my own interpretation and I like that we are free to do that, but I'm thinking that the perspective is 'off'?

[maw-t]

WOw lots happening here today! Mary.. Wonderful oil portrait! I wouldnt consider it loose, but painterly, yes.. It is lovely, and yours & melissa's look very simlar to me.. great..

Doctasi.. love those assured painterly strokes & your values & light achieved is remarkable.

Lulu.. Good job on your make over.. & those lips dont look off to me...

[ALBuslovich]

You're doing all so well :clap:

And these are very hard subjects I think. Very intimidating for me, but I will try the bougereau in minature size :D

Here is my pencil drawing on some balsa wood (primed it with a lot of gesso):

[arnoud3272]

Yes, it is my own interpretation and I like that we are free to do that, but I'm thinking that the perspective is 'off'? Hi Lulu,
IMO the perspective is not really off, unless perhaps for fundamentalists as on ARC. If you would aim at a higher likeness, I suggest to have a closer look at the form of the feature.
I traced - with the mouse :eek: - the reference and your artwork. Outlines in black, some "sculptural" shadows and highlight in blue.

http://www.wetcanvas.com/Community/images/16-Apr-2009/142886-mouth-cmp.jpg

However, I like your artwork as is, it has character and balance.

Cheers,
Arnoud

[ALBuslovich]

Just wanted to show what I have done so far, started to paint in greys and white (the picture looks a somehow bluish though). This time I made the drawing really carefull and I think it shows :D There is some likeness don't you think?

C&c very welcome!


Alex

[mimitabby]

omigoodness, a lovely miniature! I see nothing to critique. I'm just going to sit back and watch. wow.

[MSegev]

Thank you for kind comments regarding my rendition! I'm a bit "anal" over technique, as I try to cover a huge hole in my art education. So, I'm not happy with my edges; they are too darn sharp (oddly I notice it only after I look at the photo).

Doc, this is fabulous! Was worth waiting for.
Lulu, your little girl is adorable!
Alex, oh my gosh, another marvelous miniature!

[winecountry]

Mary, some where in my reading of Boug, I came across something like this, he used to draw a brush along the edges where the bg and form meet, I use a sable, which softened the edge, but did not blend it in like a lost edge. In observation just a couple of inches from the surface of actual paintings by Boug and Gerome, I tried to figure this out, and I could see no discernable edge or border between the figure's skin and the bg, they just sort of melted together, and the values were pretty close if the form was turning away from the light. Hope this helps.

[Lulu]

Thank you Mary and Arnaud.

Arnaud, I appreciate you doing that for me. Sometimes it's hard to see the wood for the trees, and to have that part isolated for me really helps. Thanks so much for taking the time.

Alex, I so admire people who can paint miniatures, this is looking fabulous already!

Colleen, thanks very much for that info.

[Ozone]

Hi Lulu,

So we meet again eh, different place and by chance, but I have always been lucky.

Nice job on the painting.:thumbsup:

Oz:)

[Lulu]

Hi Oz:wave: and thank you! going to try the Bougeureau too if I get time - gulp!:)

[Ozone]

Lulu, I will end up somewhere down here. I am switching to oil, but still have some acrylic work to finish. There may always be some more acrylic work, but I have started some oil work again as well. I sure hope to see you down here often.

I have started the challenge from last month.

Oz:)

[Lulu]

That's great Oz. I really enjoyed working with oils on this one, love the delicious blendability after acrylics! I thought I was in heaven lol
I have printed off last month's challenge, haven't got to it yet.
Looking forward to seeing you and your work here:)

[ALBuslovich]

Here is the finished miniature:

C&c as always very welcome!

Alex

[ALBuslovich]

To show the measurements:

[kadon]

Alex...this is truly amazing.!

[mimitabby]

Alex, I'm sorry, it's much too large.:D:D:D:D Honestly, if this was set in an oval frame, it would be gorgeous. I mean, it already is. You have a wonderful eye. To be able to paint miniatures like that!:thumbsup:

[garciabrothers]

Very lovely, Alex. You have amazing brush control

[MSegev]

Alex, it's gorgeous! You even got the likeness in that tiny composition, imagine that! I think with this work you've taken your miniature work to a whole new level, well done!

[binkie]

Dana - Thanks for hosting the portrait challenge!

Everyoone is doing such great portraits and I love seeing all the different interpretations.

I haven't participated before, (although I do like to stop by and seeing what everyone is doing) but wanted to try working looser again since my portraits have gotten so "tight." I know there is a lot wrong with it and I didn't measure or try to match colors. I just enjoyed sitting down and putting pastel to paper quickly without worrying about anything. 8x10

Thanks for looking!

binkie
http://www.wetcanvas.com/Community/images/17-Apr-2009/34440-GIRL__HEAD_TILTED_041709.jpg

[maw-t]

Super mini!! I cant imamgine painting that much detial that small.

Binkie! Wow girl your "tight" paintings are great, but well, you know me... I love this one!! Superb!!

[binkie]

Thanks T, It was a nice change for me.

binkie

[Lulu]

Wow Alex, what tiny tiny brushes you must use! Amazing!

Binkie, great that you decided to join in, I also love the looseness of your pastel portrait. Wonderful result.

[mringey]

Alex, love your miniature, it must be hard to get so much detail and likeness, but you did!

Binkie, love the loose pastel portrait. I especially love how you handled the hair, very convincing. The eyes are nice, dark and mysterious!

[cbcarnell]

{Gulp...} I am jumping into this awfully late, but I really want to learn how to do better portraits, so here goes! My start this evening is a very quick sketch to get placement of features. I will be working in oils on a 6 X 8 canvas.
All C & C welcome!

http://www.wetcanvas.com/Community/images/17-Apr-2009/62182-WCSmallLady.jpg

[mimitabby]

You still have nearly 1/2 the month, plenty of time. Good start! winsome face. :)

[ALBuslovich]

Nice start, cbcarnell. I'm curious what you will make from it.

Mary, thank you! I'm very happy with this miniature :D

Mimi, I will try to make an oval frame from polymer clay, you're right, it looks unfinished without one.

Thank you all for your nice comments, I find it is so much fun to do these miniatures and it is even better when you can enjoy them :D


Alex

[lneustadter]

Here is my attempt at the Bouguereau. I used a HB mechanical pencil in a Canson sketch book. Bouguereau's value changes on the face are very subtle. I do not think I captured the likeness. Can anyone suggest what is wrong?

http://www.wetcanvas.com/Community/images/19-Apr-2009/41206-AprilPortraitChallenge2.jpg

[mimitabby]

The nose is too long and you missed some of the delicate curves in the bridge of the nose. I think you made a lovely face, I'm not sure it's necessary to capture it exactly unless that is your objective.

[Striver]

Is her ear really like that

[Addy]

Here is my attempt at the Bouguereau. I used a HB mechanical pencil in a Canson sketch book. Bouguereau's value changes on the face are very subtle. I do not think I captured the likeness. Can anyone suggest what is wrong?

http://www.wetcanvas.com/Community/images/19-Apr-2009/41206-AprilPortraitChallenge2.jpg

Laurel,

I'm trying to do this one too, but in oils. I'm finding the likeness the hardest part to get right, the eyes especially. I think you did very well with the values, but the nose is too long and too straight. The head is also a little tilted to the right. I'm considering scraping mine, and starting over.

[winecountry]

thought this might help, I put it in greyscale like your work pretty good job overall.

http://www.wetcanvas.com/Community/images/19-Apr-2009/103030-compare-grey.jpg

[Lulu]

great start cbcarnell!

Laurel, your pencil drawing is just lovely! Makes me wistful for the days I only used pencil!

[Blue Pencil]

i didnt know this forum had these monthly challenges i would like to get involved too

[Addy]

I'm trying my hand at the Bougue, and I've cursed old Guillaume outloud many times. I can't get the drawing right. The eyes are wrong, and so is the nose.
http://www.wetcanvas.com/Community/images/20-Apr-2009/181390-IMGP4532.JPG

I've repainted over the right eye so many times that she's now looking like she's been in fight. None of it is in a finished state yet, so I'm considering starting again from scratch.

I did a quick thumbnail sketch that looks much more like her, even though the nose is still wrong:

http://www.wetcanvas.com/Community/images/20-Apr-2009/181390-IMGP4531.JPG

Oh well, I hope I can submit a decent attempt before the end of the month. The Fechin will probably have to wait.

[mimitabby]

Addy
leave it alone! it's beautiful. I think you caught the eyes best of everyone.
i had the same trouble with the other painting, but when it was done, it looked good.

[arnoud3272]

Addy,
I like your drawing very much, you caught her expression perfectly, why bother about more physical likeness? If you can keep that freshness during the painting stages, it would make a fabulous portrait.

Cheers,
Arnoud

[Addy]

I'm kinda anal about that. I think there's two ways you can go about doing a master copy: one is to do it more or less accurately focusing more on the process than on the product; the other is to try and do it exactly like the original's supposed to have been done and get a final product that is as much like the original as you're capable of. I prefer the second by far.

I think you can learn much more from trying to be faithful and do as exact a copy as possible. Plus I get to practice my eye and my drawing along with my painting.

[arnoud3272]

I think there's two ways you can go about doing a master copy: one is to do it more or less accurately focusing more on the process than on the product; the other is to try and do it exactly like the original's supposed to have been done and get a final product that is as much like the original as you're capable of. Hi,
It was never my intention to disapprove either attitude. I also think there is a third, because these two are still heavenly fixed on technical, physical aspects. But with really great masters, there is something that transcends the technique. One could try - and most of the time fail - to catch that "extra". I think you caught that extra in your pencil drawing, that is all.
:clap:

Cheers,
Arnoud

[Addy]

Hi,
It was never my intention to disapprove either attitude. I also think there is a third, because these two are still heavenly fixed on technical, physical aspects. But with really great masters, there is something that transcends the technique. One could try - and most of the time fail - to catch that "extra". I think you caught that extra in your pencil drawing, that is all.
:clap:

Cheers,
Arnoud

Thank you, Arnoud.
It's just that I try to focus on technical issues when I do these master copies. I didn't take issue with your comment at all. I was just trying to explain what my state of mind is when I do this kind of exercise.

[maw-t]

Addy, wonderful likness imo.. Keep going I think you have her!
cb.. I also like your start very much..

laurel your pencil is beautifully rendered.. few tweaks on the nose & you are done!

Oh boy, I am not finished ..I see stuff.. but i give:p I know it is good practice, but to paint so tight = headache for me.. whew!http://www.wetcanvas.com/Community/images/20-Apr-2009/76639-bourg.jpg

[lneustadter]

Thank you for the feedback on my drawing!

Mimi and Addy: I see now that the nose is too long and also that I missed the curves in the nose. Addy, I do think getting a likeness of the Bouguereau is difficult. For some reason, I had a much easier time with the Harlamoff. I did the Harlamoff at an easel, and I did the Bouguereau in a sketch book sitting down. Maybe being able to step back and look at a portrait really does help!

Colleen: Thanks for putting the photo and my portrait side by side. It really helps. I can see immediately the problem with the nose. I also see Addy's point about the tilt of the head being not quite right. I need to learn how to put pictures side by side in Photoshop Elements ... it is a great way to check work.

Lulu and maw-t: Thanks.

This thread is very inspiring. The artwork is outstanding!

[MSegev]

Addy, you are so close! I appreciate the seriousness in which you are approaching this challenge, wish you success.
My immediate impression from your rendition is that her eyes are too big. In case you have photoshop, might want to open both the reference and your image, make their size more or less equal, then view/cascade.

[Addy]

Addy, you are so close! I appreciate the seriousness in which you are approaching this challenge, wish you success.
My immediate impression from your rendition is that her eyes are too big. In case you have photoshop, might want to open both the reference and your image, make their size more or less equal, then view/cascade.

I agree, eyes are too big. Mouth is too wide too, though only a bit. I did her features too big for her face, it seems. I'll try to fix it one more time, and if it doesn't work I'll start from scratch.

[Gilberte]

I enjoyed browsing this thread ...

[maw-t]

Addy I have silly ?...to correct those things,could you juzt make head/face bigger or have to change each feature.. the latter I assume.. that's how I would do it, but juzt curious how others would go about it.. Luv the 3=d of noz

key board not working proprly.. zorry!

I may work some more on mine after all.. she looks like meryl Streep a bit now.. :)

[Addy]

I think I'll make the eyes smaller first, and make the mouth slightly narrower to see how that affects the look of the whole face. I could make the whole face bigger, but then the nose would be too small, and I'm almost happy with the nose.:)

[maw-t]

http://www.wetcanvas.com/Community/images/21-Apr-2009/76639-bourg2.jpg Workd a lil more ...

[maw-t]

http://www.wetcanvas.com/Community/images/21-Apr-2009/76639-bourg3.jpg A lil mor work.. blnded some... I would apprciat crits az to how to make this more realistic... likeness too, but not as important at this point. It has more pink on cheeks IRL.. looks better that way... LEArning to look closer...& enjoying finding detail more now for some reason:D

[binkie]

T - You've done a beautiful job on this!!!

binkie

[Addy]

I worked some more on this. I hope I can finish it over the weekend. I am learning a LOT from doing it.

[mringey]

Maw-T, this is so beautiful and love the delicate-seeming strokes in the dress, hair, and face. Very impressionistic.

[Addy]

Oh boy, this is hard. I worked some more on it today. The drawing is much better, but still a bit off. I did the skin in many very thin layers, only paint, without medium, sometimes spreading the paint with my fingers to get a very delicate texture. I'm just now starting to work on the hair and ear. The hair is too warm and too dark now, but that's just the masstone. I'm going darker in parts and ligher/cooler overall. Forgive me for the awful pic, it's night, and I can't get a good shot under artificial light for some reason.

http://www.wetcanvas.com/Community/images/26-Apr-2009/181390-GABRILLE2.JPG

[lilbelle]

Addy, she is looking really good! Great job on the eyes, nose and mouth :thumbsup: Gorgeous skin tones!

[winecountry]

Fantastic Addy, I know there is more to do, but to my mind, you've done it! drawing, surface and tones:clap: already....so don't need much more to finish it...

[Addy]

Thank you, Lillian. I really liked yours too.
It's funny (not really) how you see a lot more problems with a painting when you it's on a computer screen. I need to get a better camera. This is one is really killing the subtlety in the value and color variations. It looks much better in person. It's also distorting the whole thing a bit, even though I'm placing the camera absolutely parallel to the painting.

[Addy]

Fantastic Addy, I know there is more to do, but to my mind, you've done it! drawing, surface and tones:clap: already....so don't need much more to finish it...

Thank you, Colleen. I really learned a lot from doing it, and also from reading your thread on Bouguereau. I'm glad you took the time to post about it.
The thing that is bugging me about the drawing is that her left (our right) eye is too high. It's a little bit lower in the original, and maybe a slight bit smaller.

[doctasi]

Addy. Beautiful work. It's looking really great. Beautiful eyes, nose and mouth. Doc

[kadon]

Ditto to all the above Addy. Kathy

[Addy]

Thank you for the encouragement,guys.

[joolee]

Fantastic job, Addy. I have missed quite a lot on here as I have been so busy with the day job :crying: but just want to say that I think both Mary's & Doctasi's versions of the peasant girl are brilliant :thumbsup: .
Jools

[mringey]

Addy, this is beautiful, and you've really captured that translucent and soft quality of the skin and features. And, the handling of your edges really makes it work!

[Addy]

I got some more work done on this today, but my daughter did a little retouching with some Burnt Umber, so I had to scrape most of today's work. Here's what it looked like before the incident.

http://www.wetcanvas.com/Community/images/28-Apr-2009/181390-gabrielle.JPG

I know I should have painted the ear before the hair, but I wanted to get it going soon. I worked a little on the background too, but most of it will have to be redone. I was able to salvage parts of the hair.

I'm glad I'm using an Alkyd medium, and it dries to the touch in a couple of hours.

[Striver]

LAst day of the month and i am far from finished once again. Seem to be stuck at this stage and cant settle at it to day either. Also so many other things to do pressuring me, so am calling it at this, this is the stage I have difficulty in getting past, so am learning as i go, when i go that is. Worth attempting these challenges.
All work here looking good, wish i could spend more time.
Enjoy
Les:wave:

[Addy]

I worked on mine quickly this morning, but I still have the drapery to start and the background to finish. I hope I can finish it tonight.

[lneustadter]

Addy, your portrait is beautiful. Very impressive.

[Addy]

This is as far as I was able to take this before the month ended. I intend to finish it, and I'll post it later when it's done. I loved the experience.

http://www.wetcanvas.com/Community/images/01-May-2009/181390-IMGP4573.JPG

Still have the drapery to go, and a few final touches.

[winecountry]

Superb Addy! one of the best copies I've seen, I'm sure it's even better in RL

[Addy]

Wow, thank you Colleen. I'm flattered.
It does indeed look better in real life. Either I need a better camera or better photographic skills. :)

[TheBaron]

Wow, thank you Colleen. I'm flattered.
It does indeed look better in real life. Either I need a better camera or better photographic skills. :)

Does the camera have a setting or mark of "N"? this is natural light and "NF" natural light+flash.

I take my indoor photos using the "N" setting.

[Addy]

Does the camera have a setting or mark of "N"? this is natural light and "NF" natural light+flash.

I take my indoor photos using the "N" setting.

Mine has settings for a bunch of situations, but I always use a white surface to set it manually. But whenever I see this particular painting's photos here on the forum, it strikes me as quite inferior to the real life counterpart in depth and subtlety, especially in the darks. The parts where I did lots of layers look really flat in comparison too, and the lightest highlights look a bit washed out. Maybe I should underexpose it, and try to correct it on Photoshop. I'll try to do a better job of it when I post the finished piece.

[MSegev]

Addy, you've done a fantastic job! In addition, I think you deserve a special praise for not giving up.

[VicFromBayville]

http://www.wetcanvas.com/Community/images/02-May-2009/181289-Final.jpg

I did enjoy doing this work and ended up admiring the original. Now on to the May Challenge!

Thanks to all the contributors this month - your works are all interesting and informative to me and the group.

[Gilberte]

So many beautiful interpretations !
Congratulations all !

[Dana Design]

This still isn't finished but I've not had much time lately. I'm not happy with it as she looks far older than she should so I'll continue to tweek it and see if I can't shave some years off of her. comments and crits welcomed!

PS Or perhaps I'll just leave it as an 'interpretation'.

[Dana Design]

This is as far as I was able to take this before the month ended. I intend to finish it, and I'll post it later when it's done. I loved the experience.

http://www.wetcanvas.com/Community/images/01-May-2009/181390-IMGP4573.JPG

Still have the drapery to go, and a few final touches.


Addy, superb work!!! I almost thought it was the original!

[MSegev]

Vic, wow, great job on the colors. I think you've remained true to the original's spirit, even if the drawing is a bit off. It's joy to the eyes!

Dana, fabulous! Age perhaps is a little bit of issue, but otherwise, it's a fantastic and exquisite rendition.

[Dana Design]

Thanks, Mary. Worked a bit more on it today. Just playing!

[lgevirtz]

Hi everyone, sorry I'm so late with my attempt but my computer was on the fritz so I couldn't upload the file. This is far from finished, I've been struggling with acrylics and can't seem to get the coverage or glazes I'm used to with oils. Will continue working on it as I love the little peasant girl and hope to get more comfortable with the medium. I'm in awe of everyone's work on this thread!

Thanks for looking -

Lynne

http://www.wetcanvas.com/Community/images/04-May-2009/124488-010A.jpg

[Addy]

I don't know when this thread will be closed (if ever), so I'm going to post at least one more progress pic while I can. This is very nearly done, but there's still a bit to go.

http://www.wetcanvas.com/Community/images/05-May-2009/181390-IMGP4593.JPG

Sorry for posting almost the same thing so many times.

[Addy]

I'm finally done! Took me 20 days.:eek:

Not an exact copy, but the best I could do with my current skills. In case anyone cares to read more about how it was done, there's a WIP here. (http://wetcanvas.com/forums/showthread.php?t=560201)

http://www.wetcanvas.com/Community/images/08-May-2009/181390-gabriellefinal.JPG

Here (http://img407.imageshack.us/img407/9953/gabriellebig.jpg)'s a link to a bigger image.

[pug307]

Addy

I think it is wonderful, you have caught the fine transulence of the skin very.

(It kakes me realise how very much I have to learn)

well done!!

[Addy]

Addy

I think it is wonderful, you have caught the fine transulence of the skin very.

(It kakes me realise how very much I have to learn)

well done!!

Thank you. I still have a LOT to learn myself. The moment you think you know everything is when you actually stop learning.