Composition for Portraiture, Vol.1
🕑 Added 2023-07-31 23:00:05 +0000 UTCIn this lesson, our primary objective is to create a captivating composition that revolves around the three-quarter angle of the skull. To achieve this, we will employ various techniques, including the strategic use of strong silhouettes and striking contrasts. By doing so, we will infuse the drawing with depth and dynamism.
An essential aspect of this lesson is the emphasis on artistic selection. Instead of rigidly adhering to the subject's exact details, we will make deliberate choices to create a drawing that is truly compelling. Elements may be omitted or adjusted to enhance the overall impact, making it a viable visual statement.
Throughout the lesson, the significance of composition, focal points, and framing techniques will be central. By thoughtfully considering these elements, we will orchestrate an interplay of light and dark, drawing the viewer's eye to specific areas.
Bottom line, this lesson transcends the mere act of drawing a skull; it serves as an exploration of artistic expression, composition, and creative decision-making. By embracing the principles discussed, aspiring you can elevate your art to new heights and create drawings that leave a lasting impression.
Link to silent draw along: https://youtu.be/maqFEA48fnE
Materials to use:
- Graphite pencils
- Sketchbook or drawing paper
- Paper stump
- White chalk (optional for added contrast)
- Downloadable source image of a skull (provided in the description)
Comments
Mai Otaibi
Very helpful
Sonica Odendaal
Thanks you for this video and tips. My art teacher in South Africa used to say that you have to be better than your reference. Meaning, donโt just copy what you see. Make changes so that the composition works better.
Stephen Bauman Artwork
Hi Pete, these lessons are only available to stream on Patreon- no way to save them, exactly. Is that what you meant?
Pete Pala
Hi, new guy here. How do I save this for later? I just paid my monthly.
Elizabeth Bright
This video was extremely helpful. Thank you ๐๐ผ
Doug
Had a good time with this. Thanks so much for the tutorial, ๐๐ป, and on to the next one. Have a great day ya'll.
Stephen Bauman Artwork
Some it is a manufacturing question- how much would a dark background add to the picture vs. how long it would take me. After that- do I want a picture that is about light or about structure. In this case I chose structure.
Eddie Bryce
Iโm always wondering how to set my subject against the background and in this example I would probably have re-created the dark background all the way round the subject. Can you explain your decision process around leaving the darkest part of the background light.?
Traci Murphy
Ooooo! I loved it! Especially the part about focal point and composition. Inspiring as always! Thank you.
Mais Schiff
I gave it a try. The most difficult thing for me is to leave things out. I always creeping in every detail with a magnifying glass. But I admire your drawings. Now it's the most exiting way to follow your lessons. In round about a year I will see how it had changed my drawings. It feels it could be a relief.
Stephen Bauman Artwork
Happy to help, Dave!
Stephen Bauman Artwork
It is between some other lessons- the Anatomy for Portrait Artists is coming back in September. Maybe after that.
Arthur
When will we see the next lessons? Thanks
Dave Emerson
Great lesson Stephen, thanks for putting this together and sharing.
Stephen Bauman Artwork
https://www.amazon.com/BOHIN-Mechanical-Pencil-Refill-White/dp/B019JC98IY/ref=sr_1_3?crid=H1TT9NM819ZP&keywords=Bohin+white+refill&qid=1692985336&sprefix=bohin+white+refill%2Caps%2C164&sr=8-3
Scott Shulman
Stephen, may I ask where did you get the white chalk leads for a mechanical pencil? Apologies if you posted it earlier on your site...
Peter wimmelwutz
beautiful to see you staying a student, even after so many years of study. Hats off for your humility and openmindedness! You are being a great example
Stephen Bauman Artwork
Vimeo can be a bummer, I get it. For creators though it's currently the only way to keep our content private.
Marc Paull
Why is Vimeo so useless compared to YouTube? I want to cast this tutorial to my TV. I never have a problem with the YouTube videos, but I can't get Vimeo to work ๐
Stephen Bauman Artwork
Thanks, Nicolas!
nicolas collings
Loved this lesson, thank you
Stephen Bauman Artwork
Tried a little but never invested too deeply. Seems cool.
Naomi G
Hi Stephen, have you tried Silverpoint? I'm very curious, I'm considering trying it.
Andrew Konitzer
Enjoyed this. I am going to try this in my next drawing. Thanks
Stephen Bauman Artwork
Bohin, ceramic chalk in a .9mm mechanical pencil. Online for sure.
Marco Moura
Which white chalk works well for you and can we get it online?
Stephen Bauman Artwork
Taste is taste. Each one will have to decide when too much is too much. This is why you try many different solutions in many different drawings- you will see what works and what doesn't. Guaranteed.
El Chivo
Very good content Stephen. But when it is too much? I feel like the very light value in the far eye is too much.
antonella prosperi
Wow, ๐ thank you
Chantal Graveline
Reminds me of learning piano... learn chords, runs, copy... eventually take all of this and play jazz!!! the ultimate goal creating a piece of art that is UNIQUE to the creator. Thank you Stephen! Fantastic journey!
Sherry Pound West
Whoa!
Romualdo Pina
Really cool this lesson! Creativity at his highest point. Different artist different approach of expression of art! I'm below beginner level but learning so much and loving it. This lesson reminded me of chess not every player plays the same position the same way. Creativity!