Self Portrait in raw umber

[Darius K]

Hi there

Thought I'd share my effort from today. Off work with a cold so tried to make use of rare time to myself!

It is 11" x 14" oil on canvas. I toned the canvas lightly first with raw umber + OMS and wiped out the highlights. As soon as I took the photo I noticed quite a few areas that I could change and improve, but not sure if I will... I really struggled with the shadow side, not sure if that is a common occurrence when starting out? Photo from my iPad so apologies for the quality.

Any thoughts or C&C most welcome

Cheers
Darius

[bethanyt]

Hi Darius- and welcome to portraits!
This is a very good monochromatic painting. I think that every portrait is a challenge- so join the club!
I am assuming you painted from a mirror- and are aware of the need for a clear light source that will make it easier to render the shapes of the forms. I am thinking that the darkest area is the nostrils- which grabs the attention- but then that may be what you see. You are the best judge of the likeness, after all.
We would love to see more portraits!

[kentiessen]

Good work! Welcome to the Portrait Forum!

You have developed a really effective use of value which is the underpinning of all form. Shadows are best handled simply overall- the soft/hard edges can be used to good effect to selectively draw attention- here notice the nostrils are sharpest.

[KingCrimson]

Nice work Darius!

[LGHumphrey]

Marvelous!

You could add this to Bethany's "Self portraits join in the fun" thread up at the top.

[dustonpaper]

Very well done Darius ! I find the shadow side of faces extremely difficult to paint well, too.

[Darius K]

Thank you everyone for the very kind comments!

Bethany and Ken, Yes, I think I probably could have softened the nostrils as it's not really the area I planned for grabbing attention, I didnt notice this until you mentioned it, but definitely something to consider in the future.. I did this from a photo, I don't have a portable mirror on hand but one might be good for practice...

As for likeness, I walked my 3yo daughter to the easel and the first thing she said was "daddy!" so I was pretty happy with that! In reality though, I think the likeness is close, but not really there. A long way to go still, but enjoying the ride...

Lawrence, I may add it to the self portrait thread, just not sure if I'm happy enough with this one, will likely do another shortly.

Thanks again
Darius

[Wassie]

Very good portrait. I'd know you anywhere.

[Darius K]

Thanks Wassie! I will expect you to say hi next time I'm in town!!