Lian's Portraits

This week's post is dedicated to Lian's work on portraits, since John didn't have the time to complete his yet because of work commitments in the UK.

Life drawing is extremely challenging and our lesson was a simple introduction to facial proportion.

Portraits are agonizingly difficult. We are so tuned into likenesses that we can't accept any deviation from 'photographic' imagery. So it can be very frustrating as a student trying to capture the essence of a face, with enough likeness to feel a sense of achievement. 
For this reason the brief for the homework was to be able to draw likenesses that were uniquely personal, in as careful proportions as possible. In other words not to produce perfect portraits, but drawings that are 'lifelike' and proportionate.

These first profile portraits were done from photographs, including the self portrait profile. All unique and well observed. Well done Lian.

Full face Portraits from photographs..second challenge!
Lian drew herself from a photograph first and the portrait is lively because of the smile! Features well balanced and proportioned.


The proportions of the portrait on the left, however are less balanced. 

The nose is too long and the mouth is too small and too close to the chin.

Even so it is obviously a real person!



 

Portraits from Life! The final challenge.

Well done Lian. I know you say that they don't seem to you to be true likenesses and you wonder what is missing. But both these portraits have essential essences of both you and your husband. I am sure people who know you both will look at these drawings and be able to identify both of you.

Congratulations!

Portraits of Lian and Husband