"AFRICAN CHILD," 10122, daily painter portait study © Carol Nelson Fine Art



In this portrait of an African child, there are several things going on. I like the over the shoulder pose with the whistfull, almost dreamy look of the child. Notice there are two obvious light sources - a golden light on the right side that is slightly behind the figure, and a cooler white light on the left, frontal side.
The warm reds of the robe are also reflected on the face. Careful observation of these subtle nuances of light are essential when looking at the reference material. I deliberately chose this tightly cropped composition because I wanted the face to be dominant in the smaller format.
This 7x5 painting is available for $85, including shipping in the US/Canada. Please click here to go to my website for a Paypal button.

12 comments:

Karen Bruson said...

Really nice color and brushstroke variation in the hair.

Unknown said...

Nicely handled. The skin tones are so richly painted.

Arti said...

Lovely face, beautifully done, Carol.

Autumn Leaves said...

This is gorgeous; truly amazing work, Carol. Thank you too for explaining a bit about the light (I actually can see what you are saying!).

Sadami said...

Dear Carol,
Regarding figures, very interesting approach that is different from mine, watercolor. I'm learning lots from you. Keep up wonderful work!
Kind regards,
Sadami

SarahBowie said...

So did painting this make you feel better about the Dental Smiles commission? LOL. African Child turned out great, good showcase for your talents.

Pam Holnback said...

Great values in the skin.

Marian Fortunati said...

Beautifully done as always, Carol!

So this brings me to a question... Where do you find the reference photos???? Do you take pictures of these people yourself and then crop them to meet your needs?

I am in awe of your talent.

Richardson said...

Hi Carol,
What are wonderful painting-I love painting too! Come have a visit to my site sometime!
Bye,
Richardson.

Gwen Bell said...

I've missed seeing your great portraits. This one is so beautiful. Love the warm skin tones and the way her red blouse shines up on her face.

Dean Grey said...

I like the over-the-shoulder-pose too, Carol!

-Dean

jyothisethu said...

carol,

beautiful work...
you have nicely captured the expression on the face...
the strokes for hair are beautiful...

congrats...