Oil portrait, charcoal cast drawing
 

I would love some advice on the below portrait which is of a friend. Specifically, many of my portraits appear very serious, how can I lighten the expression?

I entered a post yesterday which doesn't seem to have worked, which is related to the cast drawing. Myself and some colleagues are starting an art school in London which will be designed to teach portraiture. We are using a teaching method which was developed in the renaissance and enables ANYONE to learn to draw or paint like this. We are running a summer school this August so if anyone would like to know more contact me or look at our website www.thelara.com

Very beautiful work, Catherine. You have to be true to the expression of the model. It appears that you were, without having seen a reference photo. Perhaps you could post one.

If you want to lighten the expression, it should be done on the model's end. Perhaps you just have serious models. If you are painting from a photo, the photographer (perhaps yourself) is the influence that brings out expression.

Nothing wrong with serious. But if it bothers you, try using Earnie or Big Bird behind the camera on your models! :)

Many thanks. I never paint from photos being firmly ensconced in the 'live models only' camp of portraiture!!

How long did it take? What type of lighting did you use? DO I have to pay to get an answere? :)

You might try these things: 1) lower the temperature in the room 2) don't allow the subject to get to comfortable 3) more sessions of shorter duration.

In answer...
It took ten days, working for 2 1/2 hours per day, using a single, high source of natural north light. I work in a converted church with antiquated heating, and I doubt it is actually possible to lower the temperature! (maybe that's why she looks so glum!)