Portraiture: What it Takes & Where to Start?
As an artist, I love the challenge in portraiture; capturing not only the likeness of the subject but also the personality and character. Classical painting techniques are becoming all the rage and many savvy collectors are becoming aware and searching for excellence in this genre of painting.
However, painting the portrait does not come easy. This is not “add water and stir.” It takes the following:
Plenty of study and practice especially with drawing skills
Understanding color theory
Recognizing compositional elements in painting
An undying commitment to learn the art of drawing.
How well you draw will determine how well you complete a portrait. Life drawing has to become a weekly event. Here’s how to get started:
Research arts organizations in your state or town that sponsor weekly drawing classes as well as those that are non-instructional
Study and practice the ability to draw. This art form, like all others requires time and consistency.
Most importantly draw every day! It can be as little as sketching for 10 minutes. This way you can physically see the growth in your craft and technique.
I’m reminded of that famous line by the ancient Greek artist Apelles:
“Nulla dies sine linea”
That’s Latin for
“Not a single day without a line.”
