So you want to know how to draw a potrait? Drawing a potrait can be a daunting and intimidating task, but if you know the basics of art and have the right tools, you can create a stunning potrait. Here is a step-by-step guide to help you get started.
1.Preparing the Foundation for Your Potrait
Before you begin, it’s important to know what supplies you’ll need. Select an artist grade canvas, charcoal, graphite and a water-soluble color pencil. Setting up your canvas and having everything within reach before you start drawing can really speed up the process.
Start by sketching the basic shape of your potrait. Using your charcoal, lightly sketch the elements you want your potrait to include, such as eyes, nose, mouth and ears. Sketch rough lines that follow the contours of your subject’s features. As you draw, use the proportions of the face as a reference – like the distance between the eyes or the width of the mouth – to achieve a realistic and proportional potrait.
2.Making Finishing Touches to Perfect the Potrait
Once your basic lines are in place, use your graphite to add shading and depth to the potrait. To do this, study the values of the potrait – that is, the amount of light and dark. Start to draw the shadow patterns by softly drawing a hatching or sketching out short strokes of graphite.
Use your water-soluble pencils to add a subtle wash of color. Using a damp brush, blend your colors together and bring them out with light and shadows, adding life and expression to the figure. You can also use brush pens to color in sections, blending and layering the colors with your brush.
3.Adding Details to Bring Your Potrait to Life
Now it’s time to bring your potrait to life by adding all the small details. Using your finest graphite pencil, start by sketching the hair. You can lightly draw in the direction of the hair’s flow and then use thicker lines to give structure and character.
Now focus on the eyes, adding eyelashes and artful details that represent the sparkle and character of the subject’s eyes. For the face, use your graphite to shade and draw wrinkles and lines that accentuate the features. Remember to use light feathery strokes, so the potrait doesn’t appear too heavy.
4.Finishing Your Potrait
The final step is to add the background. Select a muted color palette that complements the potrait – warm, cool or neutral. For depth, use layers of light, medium and dark tones and add texture for interest. You can use a dry brush to soften edges and edges or go for contrast by using bold strokes and abstract shapes.
When you’re happy with the potrait, you can add your signature and display it prominently for everyone to admire! With practice, patience and some masterful techniques, you will be able to create beautiful potraits that will be admired for years to come.
