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I believe the portrait artist should learn to reveal the inner soul, this is what I term 'Artists Vision'. True portraiture is not just a face reproduced.
To paint a portrait is one of the most challenging subjects for an artist. The feelings of exhileration to capture the expressions of the human likeness are wonderful rewards. Remember, an artist should not see wrinkles, only character lines. One should aim to produce a memorable likeness and mystique beneath that likeness. Every successful portrait is successful because of the rapport the artist build with the subject. I advise a 'getting to know you' period, prior to the beginning of the painting.
An artist should cultivate an inner memory file to store the attributes of their subjects. Those distinquishing characteristics that make up the individual.
Choose the most attractive and striking features, these will be dominant, focal points of the portrait; every nuance of the face and figure must be observed, but not necessarily painted.
The pose of your subject is important, it can say as much about the person as their facial expression. Remember that a well executed portrait will interpret the inner quality of the person.
To encourage 'chat' throughout the painting session is a good idea. Lead the sitter to talk about themselves: their work,hobbies,ambitions and achievements. These discussions usually bring some animation to their expression.
Every new subject is an adventure and challenge as no two people are exactly alike in appearance and temperament.
Enjoy your experience as a Portrait Painter.

Learn more about this author, Aileen Mcleod.
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