Portrait Painting

Portrait painting can be one of the most rewarding painting exercises to work on. It's always a challenge to get it just right. Even with very famous people or non. The human face is probably one of the most looked at pictures in the world. I've painted Aidan Turner in this portrait. It probably is a little vibrant for most people. But I am testing out styles of painting. There are millions of styles and some that I haven't even thought of. Finding your set style is part of the artist journey.

If you like this painting pleas share with with other fans of Aidan. If you don't that's okay. I hope to paint him in different styles in the future.

Thanks Aidan for you great acting skills.

Art Nouveau

Art Nouveau is a fantastic area of art. It has a long tradition of taking people, products and animals and redesigning them to have clean lines and beautiful colors. Here are the top 10 traits of Art Nouveau Design.

1. Line work: the line work must be clean and elegant. The figures are often drawn to be long and tall.
2. Color : Most of the colors are soft and in the light colors. But warm and neutral tones dominate.
3. Hair: If you're drawing the figure pay close attention to the elegant shape of the hair. Extra detail is placed in the hair. Drawing out each strand in some images.
4. Circles as a focal point: Having a circle as a background focal point behind the characters heads brings the main focus there. Often it is used as a design element.
5. Message: Most of the messages are to show off a product or an event.
6. Reflections: If you have a complex illustration the main focal point can be reflected. Almost like a repeating pattern.
7. Borders: The borders are elegant and designed to be clean and ornate. You'll want a detailed weaving border that swirls around the edges.
8. Influenced by nature: Most of the content is nature driven. You'll see the subject matter dominated by birds, cats, horses, and women or romantic couples.
9. Detail: The details in the piece of art can range from very fine line work to a story woven in the frame. You'll often see a message with pictures. Similar to stain glassed windows.
10. Architecture: If the influence is in the home you'll bet the lamps or staircases have detailed looks and emphasis strong curved lines. Nature is the main focus on the design in the home. To bring an organic look to it.

If you'd like to see sample of Art Nouveau here is a sample below.