How to create expressive portraits: tips for loosening up
Do you love drawing portraits but they are often tight and have no expression? That was my problem too! and I still tend to add to much detail! That is why I want to share some fun techniques for creating expressive portraits that are full of life and energy. They will be wonky but you will love them, I am sure!
1. Contour Drawing:
Contour drawing is a technique where you focus on the outlines and shapes of your subject without lifting your pencil from the paper. This helps you capture the basic structure and proportions of the face in a fluid and spontaneous way. Don't worry about making mistakes – embrace imperfections as part of the process!
2. Drawing with Two Hands:
Drawing with two hands may sound challenging, but it's a great way to break free from perfectionism and let your creativity flow. Try to draw with two hands at the same time and not one after the other.
3. Drawing upside down:
Take a reference picture and rotate it so that it is upside down. Start drawing. By flipping the image you will draw and focus more on shapes and lines and at the actual subject. It is super fun to do and the results are often surprisingly good!
4. Experiment with Materials:
Don't be afraid to experiment with different drawing materials and techniques. Try using charcoal, markers, neocolour II’s or acrylics with water-based cold wax as I did in the 100 mini-portraits challenge. Mix and match mediums to find what works best for you!
5. Practice, Practice, Practice:
Like with any skill or new technique, loosening up takes practice! Try to take some time each day to sketch, you only need 5 minutes! Don’t worry about the outcome, there will be some good and some bad ones (like in my 100 mini-portrait challenge!) Use reference photos or draw from life to challenge yourself and push your boundaries. The more you practice, the more confident and expressive your portraits will become.
Below a small tutorial I made as an inspiration for the 100 mini-portrait challenge
As always, don’t hesitate to ask me questions, I would love to connect with you!💙
PS. If you want to learn more about painting with me, here’s things you can checkout now: