For your class project, you’ll create 3 complete portraits using the step-by-step methods from this class. Start by selecting photo references — this could be a friend, family member, celebrity, or even yourself. Your goal is to apply the techniques learned in the lessons to build structured portraits.

Materials:

Pencil, eraser & paper
OR a digital drawing pen & tablet (for digital artists)
3x photo portrait references, ideally of a front, side and ¾ angle
Optional: coloured pencils, markers or mixed media to refine artwork to your liking

Project Steps:

Break your reference image into simple shapes, progressively from large to small
Lightly sketch your shapes onto the paper
Map out facial proportions and feature placement
Adjust facial features accordingly
Add details and refine lines
Add finishing touches to bring your portrait to life

Final Deliverables:

3 finished portrait drawing showing correct proportions:
- Front Portrait
- Side Portrait
- ¾ Portrait
Optional: process shots demonstrating your step-by-step approach

Share your completed portrait in the Project Gallery to showcase your progress, get feedback, and inspire others. This project will help you solidify your understanding of portrait structure while practicing your new skills in a fun, approachable way.

Kay Sherer

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