Create A Beautiful Watercolor Portrait

Learn the techniques and methods of realistic portraiture with this in-depth, narrated video demonstration.

What you'll learn

Be able to analyze the structure of a face and draw it accurately.

Be able to lay down a foundation for the piece with a harmonious underpainting.

Know how to gradually build up layers to model facial features.

Be able to round out the piece with accurate details.

Requirements

No watercolor prerequisites required, but some basic drawing ability is helpful.

Description

One of the primary purposes of portraiture is to capture a likeness of the subject; however, another key goal is to make a work of art that is appealing to the eye. This course will improve your understanding of color, composition, texture, and other elements of painting, so that you can learn to make high-contrast, attractive renderings of your own subjects. We will begin with a photograph, and start by learning to simplify the human head into a basic, three dimensional form, using the classic Loomis method. Then we will progress to the drawing phase, which will include advice on how to accurately translate your reference onto the paper, as well as the best way to hold and manipulate your pencil for maximum fine motor control. Then begins the long haul of building up thin layers of paint, slowly shaping it into a subtle work of art, as well as generating lifelike facial features, one at a time. Finally, we will carve out the fine details with a variety of tricks and techniques, ensuring that the viewer's eye will have plenty to absorb when looking at the piece. Whatever your skill level, whether beginner, intermediate, or advanced, you will no doubt find the information in this course helpful in your watercolor journey.

Overview

Section 1: Drawing

Lecture 1 Drawing

Section 2: Underpainting

Lecture 2 Underpainting

Section 3: Facial Features

Lecture 3 Modeling

Lecture 4 Right Eye

Lecture 5 Left Eye

Lecture 6 Nose and Lips

Lecture 7 Revising the Features

Section 4: Completion: Background, Hair, Details

Lecture 8 Background

Lecture 9 The Rest is Just Hair

Lecture 10 Finishing Touches

Artists, illustrators, and students looking to learn how to paint more realistically.