Joe (Ernie) my brother
 

Here is a Watercolor Portrait of my brother Ernest. We all call him Joe. The painting measures 22" x 15". I've been concentrating on oil for the past few years but decided to try out watercolor again.

I'm in awe of anyone who can do a watercolor portrait, Brian. This is nice! tell me, do you build up layers of color, and what surface do you paint on?

I am with you Julie. Hats off to you Brian.

Brian,

This is a wonderful and powerful portrait! Even in the constraint of it's vignette, it has volumes of narrative speaking of who Ernest is and how he strikes a chord with us, the viewers. In fact this is so effective, some like me may wish they could study how to approach portraits in watercolors.

Best,

Garth

Great job! I liked it very much.

A facial closeup would be nice to see also.

nice! it's amazing how you have gone into so much depth with water color. I'd never be able to do that!

I tried watercolors once in high school and hated them. You've almost inspired me to try again! This is remarkable!

Brian, I admire the way you painted the planes in his face, and gave a strong impression of your brother's character. And I'm with everyone else in admiring anyone who can get watercolor to do what they want and still let it be watery.

Thanks to everyone who viewed my post and to those who made such nice comments. For those wondering I do build up my colours in layers paying close attention to leaving the highlighted areas untouched. Initially i will do large flat washes, sometimes working wet into wet and blending with more water. Other techniques I sometimes use is lifting colour with water and brush, and sometimes a dry brushing technique to move around pigment.

I've included a couple of close ups but for the life of me I cannot find the original file. I hope these will do.

Thanks again.