Painting Demonstration 1
Mark very lightly on the paper. Pencil cannot be erased well after it's painted on. Sketch areas of value and color change, not contours.
Painting Demonstration 2
I generally start portraits with a pale wash to let me know my values. Let this dry completely.
Painting Demonstration 3
Start lightly painting in features but make sure you move around the painting. Define a few medium darks, especially around hairline, clothing. Children's portraits have very delicate brushstrokes. When in doubt, leave it a moment. Overpainting is the enemy!
Artist Tips
When you scrub the paper with a rag, you ruin the texture of the paper. Save this step for near the end!
Painting Demonstration 4
Keep moving around. I don't want to let the pattern of the rug distract from the boy's face, instead I want to use it to keep attention on the boy.
Boy's Portrait on Rug Final Watercolor Painting!
