Just done this picture what do you think

[Mark Webster]

Just done this painting of my late Dad. It took me 25 hours to do and the actual size is A3. I am pleased with it but what do you think. Constructive comments welcomed. Oh and in case anyone is wondering , it was all done free hand. The only place I used as mask was when I did the glasses just so I could get crisper lines. I also masked off the finished face area to do the back ground but this was mainly to prevent me spilling anything on it. I find using masks makes it too slow so I don't use them unless I really have too

[Misted-Dream]

I really like this, Mark! I've never used an airbrush myself, but I think it is very well done for the medium. What a wonderful painting--something to cherish over the generations for sure. I really like his face as a whole, but I especially like how you did his glasses and hair; you managed to capture great textures with them! His eyes are very well done also. My only critique would be his sweater. To me it feels a little too flat and could use a bit more variety in shadows and highlights to give it a more 3-dimensional quality. Other than that, great work! Keep it up.

[533clive]

That's some really nice work there buddy!

[Mark Webster]

Thanks for the comments. I know what you mean about sweater and jacket for that matter. Actually rightly or wrongly it was my intention not to spend too much time on them, as I wanted the face to be the main area of focus. I am by far no artist and this is my 9th piece of work. Looking at my early work it is terrible but at the time I thought they were great. The main thing is that, as I'm sure you can see, is that each time I've improved and learnt. Tim Simmons has been of great help in giving me advice in the past, I do admire his work. What I have found is my biggest down fall was using masking all the time, not only did it make progress extremly slow but produced those harsh lines. I don't regularly airbrush as I need inspiration and this was my first bit of work since nearly 2 years ago. Having said that I've had loads of people ask me, after seeing my recent work to do some portrait work for them but to be honest the thought scares me as like I've said I'm no artist.

[optic]

Hi Mark,

I liked your painting and especially your effort with freehand. Very good and nothing like your 9th painting actually.

Very nice thought, I am sure this painting would make your dad happy if he were to see this. I should paint my mom one day for the sake of all unforgettable memories of her.

Keep up with your freehand work...

[Midnight Magus]

Nice work! You can look at the picture and feel as if you know him, which is the purpose of a portrait at least to me. Good detail and use of color as well.

[nzuriel]

Very interesting. Thanks for sharing it!

[AndreZA]

I admire people that tackle portraits. Very nicely done.

[momomax]

I thought it was pretty good air brush work. i wish i could use an airbrush that well.
tj

[redanner]

Nice rendering Mark and thanks for sharing ... !!!