Overview
This course will explore the joy of creating free and vital portraits in dry media and watercolour. The instructor’s approach balances control and technique with immediacy and spontaneity and shows how these can be woven together to capture personality as well as likeness. We will focus on observation and strong value contrasts along with exploring colour and the portrait as a means of expression. Individual coaching will be provided, based on each participant’s needs and goals.
Content
There will be a total of 8 weekly lessons, each including video demonstration and examples. Weekly assignments will follow and participants can work at their own pace or follow the weekly schedule. Each lesson will be published to an on-line Virtual Studio. Work can then be submitted for review at any time during the course. Reviews will be completed with a reply typically the following day. Participants can use the example references or work on their own portraits.
Lessons
| Week | Focus | Description |
|---|---|---|
|
1. |
Portrait basics in dry media. | Description of materials for the course. Gesture, contour and volume studies in dry media. Observation and expression. Layout of a head.and shoulders composition. |
|
2. |
Limited palette studies. | Limited palette studies with watercolour wash. Warm and cool tones. Modeling and volume. Retaining white space. |
|
3. |
Painting with colour. | Colour mixing and use of complements. Skin and tones. Characteristics of pigments. |
|
4. |
Colour studies. | Portrait studies using colour. Combining transparent and opaque techniques. Handling hair. |
|
5. |
Handling features. | Using value and line in combination to arrive at a comfortable likeness. Head shape, eyes, cheeks, nose and mouth. |
|
6. |
Different viewpoints. |
Problems and solutions with the three-quarter view. Finishing touches. |
|
7. |
Combining value and colour. | Value studies and working over a toned base.Transparent colour washes. |
|
8. |
Composition and expression. |
Focus on creating interest and use of space. Developing and pursuing a personal view. Opportunities for expression. |
Materials for the first session: Cartridge paper pad or large sketch book, willow or soft vine charcoal, compressed charcoal, graphite pencils, kneadable eraser. 2 sheets of 60 – 80 lb drawing paper.
Suggested Course Materials: (Materials will be discussed in the first session) As above, plus: 5 sheets of 140 lb cold-pressed watercolour paper (15×20” approx.), 140 lb watercolour paper pad (11×15” approx), selection of tube or block watercolour paints (Cerulean blue, Ultramarine blue, Cadmium red, Alizarin crimson, Cadmium yellow, Lemon yellow, Burnt Sienna, Yellow ochre, Paynes gray, optionally, a small amount of opaque white (Chinese or similar), selection of watercolour brushes, small flat stiff-bristled brush, palette, bulldog clips, tissues, masking tape, mirror.