Thank you Buddy. I will consider that. I actually am allegic to regular dust - so it is only natural that I would be getting a reaction on the pastel too. I do have masks, which I use when I clean up.
Another portrait - this time I did an underpainting with gouache (it’s a bit light in the photo). I have used Derwent Drawing pencils mostly, and also a bit of Lightfast pencils (for the details.) I didn’t finish the hair, because I got so caught up in how to create believable details on the hat - it’s supposed to be a knitted hat.
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My latest is a portrait of my associate pastor.
This was done in charcoal with some graphite as well. The paper is 9x12 Strathmore toned gray 80lb.
I plan to frame this and give it to the pastor, but before I do, I am sharing with the community to get any and all critiques.
Terri, I could use your keen eye.
Thank you,
Jim
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Hi James @1kidneyJD
This is nicely done. The one thing that you might want to adjust is the neck. I think there should be a bigger shadow under the chin. This looks too much like a dark line, so make it bigger and fade it in a little more. Also there appears to be a light strip of skin on the entire neck immediately above the color. That skin should be the same color as the main part of the neck, or possibly a little darker as the skin slips under the collar.
Good job getting the darks of the suit but still being able to see the lapels and folds. The round details on the collar of the suit could benefit from sharper edges. The hair is something a lot of people have trouble with, and you mastered this. Hope this helps
Terri
Terri @robichon,
I thank you so very much!
I will get to working on your suggestions.
The reference photo has the lighter skin of the neck around the collar, debated to make that darker in the drawing, should have listened to that little voice.
Your input is always appreciated.
Jim
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This is from a blog post Matt did a while back called “Tiny Drawing: a challenge of scale.” I had to sharpen my pencils almost every 2 seconds but it went a lot better than expected.
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Very nice work! I am really enjoying the zebra oil ballpoint pen 
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You are very welcome. It’s a hard call but sometimes we need to deviate from the reference. I’m glad you shared your artwork. What a thoughtful gift.
Terri
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Terri @robichon,
One of my flaws, thinking like a copy machine instead of an artist. How many times has Matt and Ashley said “we are not copy machines”
I purchased the Mars Lumograph 24 tin (overkill) but was only a few dollars more than the 12 tin as well as the 6 tin Mars Lumograph black. I am ready to try them out on my next project.
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Terri, I can just see it spinning!
Looks almost like an acrylic its so real!
Love it!
Therese
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I really love this little one’s eyes! She looks like you could touch her!
What a talent and as Matt says, can tell you practice a lot!
Love all of these Siffermus (Sys)!
Hi Jim,
I think your pastor is going to love this portrait. I thought the neck needed a little work but I’m so new at this I wouldn’t have known what it needed? Thx for Terri!
I was thinking the eyes might need a little more sparkle to them as well? Maybe you could use some white charcoal and get the twinkle in the eyes?
You did wonderful on the suit and the badges and I also like the realistic mustache and hair especially around the ears!
Good job for sure!
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Thank you Therese @theresebriggs for your kind words and suggestions. I am working on those. I have benefited from Terri’s advice for the last 3 years. If you ask Terri for help she is always there for you.
Jim
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I’m very new to watercolor. This is watercolor pencil on hot press paper. I took this photo in April in Ft. Bragg, CA. They have planted wild flowers on the bluffs there and it’s so pretty in the spring. My dear old Harley Boy passed last year but I took the pic when he was still young and spry.
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Hi @Melissa
My dog also passed away (6 months ago) so I can relate to the personal value of this piece of artwork. I congratulate you for creating this beautiful artwork with your own reference photo and memories. Well done.
Terri
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It is sad that our little furry friends live such short lives. Thank you for the kind words Terri. I hope you have a wonderful evening
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