Mairead, my first critique posting!
 

Hi, feeling a bit apprehensive but here goes. This is my first critique posting. I work as a GP in Scotland, lifelong interest in portraiture but time spent on my scientific training means I'm largely self taught. I recently attended a workshop with the master pastellist Ken Paine, a total inspiration
He's encouraged me to work loosely and regard the picture as a whole.

I love pastels, hopefully they will be a stepping stone to oils but they're too much fun to leave just now!


This is a postumous portrait of my grandmother, a very lively lady.
Size is 18X24 inches on pastel paper
I'd be grateful for comments/guidance from others.

Apologies for pixelation of image, I'm not very technically minded and I'm still experimenting with compression of files etc. Alterations to the picture welcomed!

A thought
 

Margaret, you have a lovely subject and I like your approach. As per your suggestion I have indicated some areas that I believe need some attention. The areas I indicate give thought to value or temperature. Her the elision of form is not adequately conveyed. I also believe that better form to the forehead can be conveyed. One more thing I have placed arrows where it seems that a better representation of depth can be suggested.

I hope I was able to help

All the best to you

Forgot the arrows. on our right her left and around the chin. The left side looks good.

Margaret,

I love this portrait of your grandmother. It really holds together as a composition and there is an emotional connection between artist and subject that is very appealing. I get a strong sense of her personality and presence.

It's hard to pick it apart, but since you are asking, there are a couple of areas that I feel could use some modification:

1) The red area on the forehead seems too warm and bright. If I cover it, the color scheme holds together better. I think it needs to be toned down and cooled off.

2) The area between her brows and above her nose has an odd shape. Although faces are asymmetrical, the way you have rendered the form has a slightly accidental appearance.