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The amazing thing about this drawing is how much it evolved. I really allowed myself to change my mind and trust the process on this portrait, maybe more than I ever have. The initial inspiration came when I saw an absolutely stunning photo of a friend of mine. Right away I told her I’d have to draw her. I’m so thankful that I have friends who allow me to use their likeness for my work!
Right away, this was different from other portraits in this series. All the others were inspired by music, and then using that jumping off point, I’d find references that resonated with the abstract idea swirling around in my head. Having the person first almost felt like working backwards. How could I find the song that perfectly encapsulated the aura of my reference? I went through songs I already loved, paying attention to feel of the music and the lyrics. With one song in mind, I got started. But like I said, things evolved!
I discovered new music as I worked, new fixations. I listened to these songs over and OVER, getting into a zone while I shaded the face, lined the hair, created textures. I shared a video of the progress on the portrait with one of the songs playing. Imagine the excitement I felt when the subject of this drawing messaged me SO excited about the music choice! It felt like the stars aligned. Or the simulation was moving forward on its path. Whatever!
I mentioned trusting the process earlier. This was so huge this time because
I almost never draw side profiles
I had no idea how I wanted to create the texture for the hair, only that I wanted it to be different that past portraits
I had no plans for the background when I started
I’m drawing someone I actually know! What if it didn’t look like them omg
There were a lot of moments where I thought I ruined it. And there were moments with the background where I thought I overworked the image. But it’s perfect. I’m so proud of the variety of textures I achieved with just 2 micron pens and a lottt of stipples. I am soo excited to display this and the rest of the series in May.