A Sprite Irish Lad!

Patricia Joyce · 03-17-2004, 05:28 PM

Thank you, Matthew!
I always work to emphasize the eyes. They are, after all, windows to the soul. And I just love to draw them!! Brian's chin is dimpled(?) I think from his expression. He does not have a distinctive dimple, so I thought it best to keep the chin looking smooth. I was afraid if I tried to render the dimpling it might "age" him. I thought it better to leave the skin baby smooth.

I am using a range of pencils on this one. I started the drawing with 3H, very lightly so that I could erase and make adjustments when necessary. Also used the 3H to lay down the shadows. Then I worked up to H, HB, B, 4B and 6B. I also recently purchased a battery powered pencil sharpener and keep it right next to me. I sharpen up at least three pencils in each hardness. I am getting better at stopping and sharpening often, it does really affect the line quality.

I've learned here on the forum and in Anthony Ryder's workshop that the pressure of the pencil to the paper should always be light. To go darker, use a softer lead, not a heavier hand, so that you do not mar the paper's surface.

Matthew Severson · 03-17-2004, 11:10 PM

I really hate putting in my opinion -- I'm only 16 and probably offend people with in my two cents. If any of you find me annoying, chew me out or something.

Anyway.

I'm not sure about anyone else, but the shoulder seems to create a little bit of confusion. At first I thought he had a violin under his chin.

That would make an adorable drawing by the way -- me and my vivid imagination -

Matthew

Michele Rushworth · 03-17-2004, 11:43 PM

Matthew, you never have to apologize for your opinion. All of us here are very impressed with what you've accomplished at your age, and your input is always welcome!

Jimmie Arroyo · 03-18-2004, 12:20 AM

You gotta just draw what you see while trusting yourself. If you make a relation between how dark the double line is compared to another part of the picture, you should notice it is way too pronounced.

You mentioned his personality, and what I completely forgot to mention before, and Matthew noticed, is the dimple on his chin. Whether or not he has it relaxed, it's there in his smile or sorta smirk in this case. I would have definitely put it in, not only does it change the expression, but may lead the viewer to think his chin is bigger than should be. If it is for someone else, then I guess they should have the last say, but I think he'll look even cuter with it.

Patricia Joyce · 03-22-2004, 11:27 AM

For the sake of completing what I have started, I am posting the finished portrait of Brian. I am not happy with the conclusion at all. I feel I lost allot of his likeness in trying to take the drawing further. I was very frustrated with the mouth, actually the whole muzzle area.

Did I learn anything? YES - that one must move methodically and slowly, continuously paying attention to a miriad of issues. Issues such as tonal range, likeness, placement of features (underlying form), quality of each and every line drawn, and last but not least, knowing when to stick a fork in and call it done!!

On to the next project. . .

Thank you for all your input, as always it is a great learning experience. You all contribute to the development of my learning curve. I am forever grateful!!