Underpainting finished

Finished the underpainting.  A basic form exists now.  Not only do I like how this form shows through in the final painting but it makes my job easier as all I have to do now is "color in" and bring him to life.

I'm so glad you enjoy following along.  There are so many different ways to approach a painting and as Artists we evaluate the gifts we have and are drawn to some ways rather than others.  I don't teach that this is the only way to paint but encourage inspiring Artists to take a personality test first and sometimes from that you can tell what approach to Art is going to suit you, whether it's splattering paint on a canvas, seeing pictures in your head and painting directly what you see, or spending weeks on one painting and layering like this.  I love all kinds of art.  (some of the best are done by my Grandkids)

This portrait is largely influenced by Scottish Artists I love from the 18th Century.  Henry Raeburn, Allan Ramsay, Gavin Hamilton.  I have seen many of their portraits in Glasgow and Edinburgh.  I love their attention to clothes and detail.  Two years ago when I was in Glasgow I saw Clanadoni playing with their drums and then thought it would be fun to paint Tu-Bardh.  It just so happend when I was home this year that they were in Dunoon so I was able to get some photos with his permission.  I love how in place of a sword he has his drum mallets hanging by his side.

So, I'm off to mix up some delicious fleshtones, cadmiums, ochres and oxides.  Thanks for following along.