A better version of Laura Ravasi.

[Allan Rahbek]

You must be kidding, right ?

Allan

[Judson Eneas]

You mean the painting is that terrible?

[Allan Rahbek]

Hi Judson,

With all respect, yes !

I think that you will have a lot to learn by listening to the many skilled painters in this forum.

I too am learning from my mistakes. And I put learning above all other things.

I like to show of and get applause, but I also know that it is a short pleasure.

If you really want to learn you must be humble and serious.

That

[Judson Eneas]

What advice would you give me on how to improve this painting? It appears that I have a problem painting White people.

[Allan Rahbek]

Hi Judson,

I would advise you to look at the demo's of Marvin Mattelson and others.
And look at Morgan Weistlings homepage.

The colors of the so called colored people and the so called white is not that different that you need a different palette !!!!!!

Allan

[Sharon Knettell]

Judson,

Your problem is not painting particular skin-tones. It lies with your overall lack of knowledge of the underlying structure of what makes a good painting; good solid drawing and an understanding of the basics of form.

I would suggest you look into buying Harold Speed's books -
"The Practice and Science of Drawing" and "The Practice and Science of Painting". They are only about $12 each.

Practice ONLY your drawing for at least a year, then do some simple monochromatic painting of simple objects before you attempt the human face and painting in full color. You will be glad you did.

[Lynn T. McCallum]

Judson!

How disheartening this must be for you!

Hang in there and keep on improving your skills! I can see you were looking at the big basic shapes and did OK. Design is a biggie for better painting also. It just takes a lot of time and patience. When people have portraits painted they want it to be an accurate and flattering representation of how they perceive themselves to others. This is not an easy thing to do at all! Marvin Mattelson has told us all on a few occasions that portrait painting is much more difficult profession to study than that of the studies of a brain surgeon. It's a discipline first, then it's an expression! You'll do fine just keep at it.

BTW. The Paxton palette, which is what a lot of portrait painters are starting to adapt is good for any race. You just mix that palette and pretty much that is all is needed for some beautiful flesh tones. Black, East Indian, Asian, you name the race, there are all the colors you need before you!