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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.

                                shawn no. 1.jpg (15741 bytes)

Stage Two - The shadows are roughed in with darker flesh tones.  Any local colors are also added at this time.

                                shawn no. 2.jpg (15490 bytes)

Stage Three - Darker accents are added next to the eyes and hair.  Half tones are added between the light and dark masses.

                               shawn no.3.jpg (17344 bytes)

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.

                                shawn no. 4.jpg (17828 bytes)

Stage Five - Background is now added and adjusted to accent figure.  Further blending is done to complete the "Alla Prima" portrait.

                                 shawn no. 5.jpg (17649 bytes)

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