My Young Father

[Chase Mitchell]

Been ages since I've been on here. Hope to post more now that summer is hitting and I have plenty of time for art now.

Anyway, this is an 11x14" graphite drawing of my dad when he was 5. I couldn't resist. Opportunity knocked and I opened the door to greet it. Let me know what you think.

I would post the original photo but it's not in my possession anymore.

[Lon Haverly]

There are several suggestions I will make, in spite of having no reference photo.

It is larger than life. This will cause trouble, especially on a children's portrait. Try to work just smaller than life. It appears that the individual features are out of proportion, possibly due to the size of your drawing. This can be corrected by better sizing of the drawing, and better line execution. Practice, practice, practice.

You have modeled the drawing well, but your line technique is weak. The lines lack expression and good execution. The point of your pencil needs more attention. The line work also is misplaced in some areas, especially on the viewer's right side of the face where it appears the light source is. The lines here detract, as well as the lines under the viewer's left eye and in some areas of the chin. They are too dark, and lack sensitivity. Try to make each line count.

Finally, try to place the portrait so that it does not run out of room, as it appears to have done at the neckline of the shirt. Think ahead!

Keep it up. There are no shortcuts!