For this project, you will create a monochrome portrait using a photo taken in bright sunlight to capture the strong contrast between light and shadow on the face. You can choose from a variety of mediums, including watercolor, watercolor pencils, gouache, acrylic, or pastels, to study the face and paint with just white and black. The tinted paper will act as your midtone, adding depth and dimension.

If you’d like to explore four practical and easy methods for transferring a drawing onto brown or black paper, download a handy guide now! Packed with detailed steps and helpful tips, this guide will walk you through each method effortlessly.
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You can experiment with different colors of tinted paper, such as brown, or even create your own by using watercolor to tint the background. For more detailed explanations and other subjects to practice this technique, be sure to check out my previous class, Glass Mastery. This project is a great way to refine your understanding of light, shadow, and facial structure while keeping the process creative and enjoyable!

In the resources section, you'll find my completed paintings to use as reference, along with a pencil sketch that you can trace to get started. You have the freedom to choose your own portrait subject or follow my painting exactly—it’s entirely up to you!

For reference photos, I used Unsplash, a fantastic source for free, high-quality images that can serve as inspiration. I’ve also curated a special collection of images on Pinterest to spark your creativity and help you find the perfect reference for your portrait.

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It’s a great pleasure for me to give my students feedback, so please take a photo of your painting and share it in the student project gallery under the Project and Resources tab.

I’d love to hear all about your painting process, if you had any difficulties or what was the most enjoyable part of the painting process.

Upload your artwork by clicking "Submit Project" on your right on the Projects & Resources tab.

Step 1: Upload a cover image, it can be your artwork photo, but it will be cropped. No worries, you can upload a full photo further.

Step 2: Share your thoughts about the class or/and your painting process.

Step 3: Under the field, where you write, you can find 3 small icons. Click on the first one - Image and upload your artwork. You can see your photo appearing under your text.

Step 4: Scroll to the top and click on the green button “Publish” to share your project.

If you have any struggles or questions during the class please start a discussion and I will be sure to answer your questions.

I highly encourage you to explore the work of your fellow students in the student project gallery. Viewing other creations can be truly inspiring and also to receive support can be incredibly reassuring, therefore please consider engaging by liking and leaving comments on each other's projects.

Shirley Bell

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