So what is a “Portrait”? Portraits are a very popular subject for a drawing. By definition it is a drawing, painting, photograph, sculpture, or engraving of a particular person. It is predominately only of the face, head, and shoulders. And it is usually desirable to capture their personality, mood and likeness through the expression on the face.
Then what’s a “Self-portrait? That would be an image of yourself, with you as the artist. Most artists end up doing many self-portraits. Good practice and you always have your subject with you.
Portraits are not easy. Even though we all have the same parts and pieces (eyes, nose, mouth, etc…) they are ever so slightly different in size, shape, and placement. Drawing a person is truly a test in observation. But once you learn the basic proportions (there’s that word again), and give it some practice, you’ll find them a positive, fulfilling challenge.
I will attach printable handouts that will walk you through a generic portrait, step by step. When you feel comfortable with those , we’ll have some fun with them!
