I surmise that one of the most difficult aspects of drawing or painting is to have the ability to "fashion a likeness" of an object, a place, or especially a person. A likeness would then represent a similarity, a familiarity, and the spirit and essence of the person, place, or thing. Out of the first 33 sketches in my notebook, only about 3-4 are rated by me as having a "likeness" to the model. I find it particularly difficult with respect to people and portraits. So further practice in observation and representation is required. In some cases, I am practicing the same model in the same pose and expression several times, evaluating each time what needs to be improved to move closer to a likeness.
The following representation is of my artist friend enjoying the lake in Maine. He's a real saint to mentor me in my artistic endeavor. I will never forget his example and his commitment to the creative pursuit. Saints are also forgiving and I need a lot of mercy in this journey.
Original Photo: Irish Saint - Copyright James E. Martin 2012
Original Drawing: Irish Saint - Copyright James E. Martin 2012
It took me two different sketches to get it to a point where I thought it was a likeness. This is my first likeness. Thanks Bob. What character there is in this model!
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