Portrait Painting Techniques - Toning, Gridding and Skin Tones
Andrew Tischler・2 minutes read
Andrew discusses toning the canvas, gritting up, and the process of painting portraits in a tribute to John William Waterhouse. He emphasizes the importance of using specific colors for skin tones and outlines a methodical approach to creating depth and volume in facial features.
Insights
- Toning the canvas before painting portraits is crucial to avoid stark white backgrounds, allowing for a mid-tone base that enhances the richness of colors and skin tones, achieved through a specific process using Williamsburg burnt umber and pur gum turpentine.
- Gritting up, a method discussed for transferring photographic references accurately onto the canvas, emphasizes the importance of proportion and grid systems, aiding beginners in achieving accurate likeness and improving hand-eye coordination, even though the individual prefers freehand drawing, showcasing the balance between traditional techniques and modern tools for painting portraits.
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Recent questions
How can I avoid stark white backgrounds when painting portraits?
To avoid stark white backgrounds when painting portraits, it is essential to tone the canvas before starting. Toning the canvas involves achieving a mid-tone that allows for clear visibility of both lighter and darker colors in the painting. This process can be done by applying a mixture of Williamsburg burnt umber and pur gum turpentine to the canvas using a cheap brush. Ensure the toned mixture is evenly coated on the canvas without any thick areas of paint. Wipe off any excess paint to prevent interference with drying times and subsequent layers of paint. Toning the canvas provides a suitable base for painting portraits, enhancing the richness of colors and skin tones.
What is gritting up in painting portraits?
Gritting up in painting portraits is a method used to transfer photographic references accurately onto the canvas. This process involves creating a grid system on both the reference image and the canvas to aid in achieving accurate likeness. Proportion is crucial in this process to avoid distortion, especially for beginners. While some artists prefer freehand drawing, using a grid can help beginners gain confidence and start painting. The benefits of using a grid system include improved hand-eye coordination and the potential for design changes during the painting process.
Who is John William Waterhouse and why is he admired?
John William Waterhouse was an artist admired for his painting style, particularly his use of color and composition to convey stories in his artworks. Inspired by Waterhouse, many artists aim to emulate his techniques and color choices in their own paintings. Waterhouse's ability to evoke emotions and narratives through his use of color and composition has made him a celebrated figure in the art world.
Why is lead white preferred over zinc white for painting portraits?
Lead white is preferred over zinc white for painting portraits due to its archival properties. Lead white is known for its durability and ability to maintain its color over time, making it a popular choice for artists concerned with the longevity of their artworks. In the context of portrait painting, using lead white ensures that the colors used for skin tones remain stable and vibrant for years to come.
How can I create depth and volume in portrait painting?
To create depth and volume in portrait painting, it is essential to focus on layering colors, establishing three-dimensional forms, and blending shadows and highlights effectively. Gradually increase saturation in colors, saving the most intense hues for areas like the lips to create a realistic effect. Experiment with mixing specific colors for different facial features, such as cadmium red, perylene crimson, manganese violet, ultramarine blue, and burnt umber. Use different brushes for precise application, adjusting tones, and creating softness in forms like lips, chin, and neck to enhance the depth and volume of the portrait.
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