Saturday, June 11, 2011

THE BEGINNINGS By Cecelia Lyden

Today I started a commissioned portrait of an adorable 18 month old boy. I began by copying the photo I will be working from, printing and gridding it to ensure the right proportions and placement on the canvas. I always find things that need correcting when I photograph and view my work on the computer. It's all a part of studying your work in progress in different ways --like looking at it upside down or in the mirror--just unusual ways to really see your work. There is still much correcting and drawing to do on this, before I begin painting it.

2 comments:

Krivenkostudio said...

Hi Cecelia, your portrait is looking good. I commend you for trying something I would not consider. Can't wait to see the finished portrait.
Painting a portrait from a photo is difficult for me.
My problem with working from snapshots is the light source comes directly from the flash. giving no depth to features because there are no shadows. Other problems exist in how the angle of the lens can distort some features. It looks good within the photo, but somehow does not translate well with a painted portrait. I don't have the creative ability to compensate for those challenges. Maybe someday you can share your knowledge.
You do great work, looking forward to meeting you at the next DPP get together. Phil

Debra Kreiger said...

I use a rid when I need real accuracy! Great start Cecelia. He is a cutie!