If I had known that Koosje Koene was going to ask me to sketch a self-portrait, I probably would not have signed up for this semester with Sketchbook Skool. I have never attempted any kind of portrait sketching. But I’m in the klass now — and I’ve trusted her before and been pleasantly surprised with my product, so I dove in.
The first attempt was done while sitting in a comfortable chair in front of a mirror with a spot light on the left side of my face. The sketch is clearly of a person, just not one that resembles me much. But onward!
The next assignment was to do a self-portrait — Koosje calls them ‘selfies’ — using a photograph. This was a bit easier for a couple of reasons: 1. I had the experience of the first sketch and could see where I went astray. 2. I wear glasses for close work so I was putting them on and taking them off constantly for the first round, not so for this one. Whew! Click on image for a larger view.
It’s not perfect but it does come a lot closer to resembling me. And I’m not looking for perfection, just skill building. If I want a true likeness I’ll use my camera. As Koosje says
Have no fear of perfection. You will never reach it.
Now that takes the heat off!
It really does take courage to do art. I would have been terrified to do a selfie! Yours turned out well. I’m kind of intrigued by your skool.
This is my second ‘semester’ with them. Every one of the instructors has been great. Check them out on line.
Often a drawing is so much more interesting than a photo. Good on you.
I agree Sara. I rarely photograph well. I usually look half way approachable when I’m not looking right into the camera.
I think it looks like you, only not as pretty!
I keep surprising myself with these sketches. Koosje’s attitude about sketching helps a lot. In fact, all the instructors in this course have been super instructors with very user-friendly approaches.
I agree. It’s very good, but you’re prettier. (And I’m totally adopting Koosje’s saying!)
Gosh, I wasn’t fishing for compliments, but thanks. I’m not going to share the first sketch I did. Boy! Did I look angry. Funny what a wrong line and there will do. 🙂
stretch ‘n’ grow!
U R inspirational, Franki!
Thanks MB!
Love your selfie! Isn’t this workshop fun?
I am loving this klass Loretta. With 6 instructors we learn so much!