Classical Portraiture Techniques and Concepts

This course is taught in 3 Parts: Portrait Drawing, Grisaille Painting, and Full Palette Painting. Part 1 will have 3 demonstrations (each with a refined and real time version).

Part 1 - Portrait Drawing in Graphite

Creating a realistic portrait in graphite is a demanding project that requires practical solutions for the challenges you face at every stage. In this tutorial I will teach you how to maintain the structure in your drawing while going from line to blocking in values. Eventually going all the way through to making your final refinements. You will start by selecting a source image from the model photos provided and preparing your materials.

Part 2 - The Grisaille Method of Underpainting

The term grisaille describes a monochrome painting or under-painting usually created in shades of gray. Originating from the French word “gris” meaning “gray.” The work of grisaille may be created as an independent finished painting, it can also be employed as an underpainting for an oil painting whose final layer is painted using a full color palette. When used as an underpainting this method emphasizes a study of composition, values, form, and light effect. A perfect way to ease the transition from a preparatory drawing into an oil painting.

Part 3 - Portrait Painting with a Full Color Palette

This final tutorial in the series will focus on making a direct painting over our grisaille layer. This approach involves painting wet into wet and is most useful for oil painting students as it allows strokes to be softened and blended most efficiently. While learning how to paint an accurate portrait you will also learn about the discipline of oil painting. The subjects covered here will include many elements: color, form, light, shadow, texture, mediums, brushes, supports and more.