Learn to Sketch a Portrait "Alla Prima" -- All at Once.
This "Alla Prima" method of sketching a subject in oil takes approximately two hours and is primarily used by the artist as a study prior to a formal portrait.
Stage One - The subject's likeness is sketched on a toned panel with transparent brown color. The light mass is layered with flesh tones.
Stage Two - The shadows are roughed in with darker flesh tones. Any local colors are also added at this time.
Stage Three - Darker accents are added next to the eyes and hair. Half tones are added between the light and dark masses.
Stage Four - Accents of highlight are added to the light mass. Darker accents are added to the shadows. Blending between lights and halftones takes place at this stage.
Stage Five - Background is now added and adjusted to accent figure. Further blending is done to complete the "Alla Prima" portrait.
