Description
You can create dynamic pastel portraits with help from this video demonstration from Dawn Emerson. After a review of photo references and sketches for design and composition, light and shadow, Dawn invites you to follow along and learn as she paints a portrait from start to finish.
Dawn starts the painting with a charcoal underpainting using big shapes to place the subject and establish a range of values. Once complete, she builds the underpainting with ink and watercolor to add texture and subtle color as a next layer. Once dry, the fun with color begins as Dawn uses pastels to build the portrait from large to small shapes. Narrating her painting techniques and processes along the way, Dawn shares insightful painting tips and insights that will help you create your own meaningful portrait paintings.
This portrait painting demonstration includes:
- Painting techniques for line, value, edges, shape, composition, and color
- Tips for capturing gesture, expression, and mood
- Mark-making techniques for brushwork and pastel
- Pastel painting demonstration in pastel; paint a portrait step by step
Preview Dynamic Pastel Portraits here now to explore a portrait photo reference, get started with a charcoal underpainting, and learn best practices for adding pastel color.
Laura Searle (verified owner) –
This is an excellent video showing a ‘looser’ way of painting people that ultimately is lively and dynamic. The results are very satisfying. What can I say? It’s great!