I started doing your other portrait painting class, then switched to this one when I realised my reference image suited this class better. I had to rework my underpainting so much over the process that the blocks of light and shade are not as clear as they could be any more. This is the first time I've done an underpainting though, and now I've gotten to the end of it I realise what the actual purpose of it is, so next time I'll be able to do it with more of a plan! First time with oils too, and I'm really pleased with how they feel to paint with. They're just so much more flexible than acrylics, and with kids, it means that I can block smaller times to paint during every day, rather than have to churn out the whole thing at once, which is what I have tended to attempt. Looking forward to adding colour next!

 

Update:

I've almost finished the painting - the clothing still needs some refinement and texture, but I'm pleased with how it's come together, and I've learned so much. Next time I'll be more aware of dust settling on the work - not terribly fussed about it this time though. Thanks so much for the class!