portrait from a beginner

[keiko3728]

This is one of my first attempts at a portrait. I have not had any training and so would welcome any constructive comments on how I can improve. Elizabeth is a friend of mine and the drawing was taken from a photo.
thanks, Keiko

[BYart]

Hi there and welcome!!!
I think this is so very well done! The proportions are great, I like the way you rendered the hair and the glasses too!
Is this done in pastel? Is it done on a darker surface?
The only suggestion i could offer would be to try and even out the (what I believe is)the surface/paper color showing through, especially on the forehead, nose and cheek area.
This may be somewhat due to the image, so please disregard it that is the case.
Again, i think this is very well done, and for a first portrait attempt, it's outstanding!

[keiko3728]

Hiya,
Thanks very much for your comments. I know what you mean about the paper showing through. As soon as I added fixative (it is pastel) everything changed and that was the result . Do you know any way of avoiding this problem or should I just use a lighter colour paper?
Thanks,
Keiko

[BYart]

If you applied a workable fixative, you should be able to add more pastel over the areas in need.
I think just adding more pigment, and blending a bit more will get you the desired results no matter the paper color. May i ask what type of paper?
Also, what is your technique for blending?

[sablewand]

Very nice portrait. You did such a wonderful job for your first one. The proportions on the face and your lines look great. I hope to see more of your work soon. DeVonna

[keiko3728]

Hi Barb,
thanks for your comments. I am using Daler Rowney 160gm paper and for that portrait I used a dark colour which may be where the problem was. I have ordered some velour paper in a light grey so maybe I will have better results with that. I looked at your galley and am very impressed with your work. I love animals too.
Have a great day,
Keiko

[keiko3728]

Hello DeVonna,
Thank you for your kind comments. I am encouraged and inspired to move onto my next drawing. This site is great because I can now get feedback from people like you who are on the same wavelength.
Thank you,
Keiko

[rrsum]

Keiko,
This is quite good! You definitely have something going on here. I've never worked with pastels, so I'll leave the tips and ideas to those that have.
I do know potential when I see it though, and you've got plenty of that! This is very good! Welcome and I look forward to seeing more!

[keiko3728]

Hi Rich,
Thanks very much for your nice comment. I am new to this site and all the comments I have so far are very encouraging.
I really feel like I want to start my next drawing! thanks very much!
Keiko

[xxbreezy]

Welcome to ASC!!! For a "first attempt" my dear friend, this is amazing!! You should continue on and just paint...paint...paint!!!
Linda

[william]

Keiko,

This is very good, you seemed to have captured the woman's face and details on the face very well. I like the warm pinks against the greens, helps establish depth in the portrait. Next time, try getting some of the background color into the shadow areas of the portrait.
The only other comment I have is to watch the size of the head against the size of the shoulders.

Other wise, this is a good portrait.

William

[keiko3728]

Hello Linda and William,
Thank you very much for your lovely comments. I have decided to start my next portrait as all the positive comments I have received on this site have really inspired me! Thank you for giving me the confidence I need.
Keiko