My creative process for portraits is now well established. An initial sketch in rapid, energetic HB pencil to capture the overall construction of the model with strong guiding lines, followed by the establishment of shape and form with successive layers of wash in the same tone in general, or sometimes in Indian ink for greater contrast.
Then the choice of colors or not, depending on the atmosphere and my inspiration. Finally, highlights in black stone or pastels, with the eye always last. I take the time to define it well, because it’s what gives the model all its life, depth and vibrancy.
Creating is really an effort to represent being, to make it present here and now, in fact to bring it into being! Or be reborn!
It’s always a great source of happiness and satisfaction for me.
