Art journal portrait paintings
using
chalk & craft paint,
watercolors & gouache
on construction paper

I’ve been wanting to add more drama to my portraits lately, so I’ve been using reference photos that have deep dark shadows, shadows within shadows, and bright highlights.

When I’m finished with the painting, I don’t want it to look anything like the photo – that’s not my goal. I’m only using the reference photo as a guide to know where to place the darkest darks, and lightest lights.

Often I’ll using a reference photo of a man, but I’m actually painting a woman – or vice versa. Sometimes, I’ll use the same reference photo for days, but my paintings are all different. 

Putting my own spin on things is key to me. I want to look at a painting, and know it’s my own creation – not a copy of a photo. 

I hope you have a lovely creative day. 

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Purchase original art through me, and get free shipping. 

I also sell originals & prints on eBay and Etsy – shipping isn’t free on these sites because of the high cost of fees & ads.  

You can message me here. 

Other places to find me online.

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