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Pencil Portraits
Pencil Portraits
Close observation is very important when starting the line drawing of an eye. You must
pay particular attention to the difference in shape between the upper and lower eyelids.
Each eye is unique and the more acute your observation, the more accurate a likeness you
will achieve.
There are two main elements to consider when drawing the glassy surface of the eye:
A bright glint of reflected light should be left as unshaded paper at the start of the tonal
drawing. This will become the brightest element in the eye. This reflection is further
enhanced by its contrast with the pupil - the darkest element in the eye.
The iris contains a variety of tones and flecks which radiate to the center of the pupil. It is
usually darker around its outside edge and lightens towards its center creating a
translucent effect.
The nose is formed by a series of curved planes. This makes it difficult to draw from the
front as there are very few lines to help us describe its shape.
Start by drawing what you can see, namely the inside and outside edges of the nostrils.
Then try to outline the main areas of tone that define the planes of the nose.
Draw these lightly as you want them to disappear under your shading at a later stage in
the drawing.
Step 2 - The Basic Tones
Next, simplify your shading into three basic tonal areas - dark, medium and light (the
white of the paper).
Block in each plane of the nose with its appropriate tone. This should begin to render its
three-dimensional form.
Finally, refine the strength and subtlety of the tone, carefully softening the lines that join
each plane with graduated areas of shading.
You must look more closely at this stage to try to discern the faint variations of shading
within each area of tone. It is this close observation that will take your drawing to the
next level.
PENCIL PORTRAITS - HOW TO DRAW A MOUTH
The mouth is the second most expressive feature of the face. Great care should be taken
in drawing its shape as it is a key element in achieving a likeness.
Start by drawing the subtle shape of the line that is formed as the lips meet. This will
create a natural expression for the mouth.
The top lip has its characteristic bow shape which varies considerably from person to
person. The bottom lip is usually larger than the top and more creased with vertical
stretch lines.
The upper lip slopes inwards and is normally darker in tone as it is shaded from the light.
The lower lip is fleshier with a stronger muscular structure. It tends to catch the light and
is further distinguished by the shadow below its pouting form.
Step 3 - The Final Tones
In the final stages of drawing the mouth, tone is used to soften the edges and refine the
detail.
Enhanced tones are used to highlight the surface texture of the skin and make you more
aware of the muscular structure that lies beneath it
There is a subtle softening around the edges of the lips which helps to blend them
comfortably into the face. Note how the detail at each corner of the mouth diffuses into a
small area of tone. There are no sharp lines left in the final image.