The Muse

Richard Jones · 07-05-2006, 11:16 PM

Hi everyone,

This is a portrait of one of the models from a life drawing session I've been going to. It was done using sharpened NuPastels, and blended/smudged using toule and a bristle brush. I was inspired by William Whitaker's pastels and I had been practicing that technique for a few smaller drawings before tackling something like this. He makes it look so easy.

I'd really be interested in your opinions, criticisms, advice, words of wisdom, etc. about this one. I've included some closeup shots. Thanks in advance.

32 x 40, NuPastel on Museum matboard

Chris Saper · 07-06-2006, 11:58 PM

Richard,is this piece done from life? If so let me know and I will move it to the life ssection. Very lovely.

Alexandra Tyng · 07-07-2006, 08:25 PM

Richard,

There is a lot of energy radiating from this drawing--I like it very much! It's partly the position of the model--lots of diagonals--but the model herself looks kind of restless and wiry and full of character. In spite of all this radiating energy, you've created a good solid focal point around her face and chest by strenthening the contrast and making the whitest whites there.

The value changes are a little abrupt, and the value contrasts could be toned down slightly. If you are working on white paper, the easiest way to handle this is to be careful about how dark you go, and where you need to go the darkest. Some of the overly abrupt value changes are in the areas of her nose, her collarbone, her chest under her collarbone, and her forward shin. Try to be more aware of the transitions that may be very subtle but will help round the form.

The other thing you might want to keep in mind in future drawings is the level of detail. In some places, like her hands, the detail works well, but in other places there are too many wrinkles (i.e. her ankle, her dress in the shadow, her forward calve in the shadow.

Richard Jones · 07-09-2006, 01:44 PM

Chris and Alexandra,

Thanks for your comments. I see your point about the detail and value changes. I think I got a little carried away with the dark values overall.

Again, I really appreciate your comments. It's great to hear from an objective point of view.