This workshop aims to give a better understanding of the process I utilise to create a good likeness in a portrait using acrylic paints and mediums. It shows how I employ techniques developed over many years and helps give a better understanding of the process so that you can have the confidence to try this at home and create a successful portrait of your own.
Brushes
I choose the largest brush I can to get the job done. My advice is to choose the brush size you think will get the job done and then try to go at least one size larger! My choice of brushes for this portrait is broken into four stages of painting:
1. Early blocking in
Tonal wash over pencil sketch to cover it and connect to the various forms. Chunking in stages – block in larger areas quickly with washy paint. Use the larger hog bristle (#12 #10 - bright shape). Basic loose blending and soft edges.
2. Begin to adjust
Refining form and larger shapes. Hog bristle flat brushes with longer and better quality bristles (Flat #8 Filbert #6).
