Seventh piece ever with acrylics

This is my seventh piece ever and I can't believe how amazing it looks.

This is done with acrylics. Any feedback would be more than welcome.

[Karin Wells]

You're getting better at this. Keep painting!

What size? Are you working from a photo? From life? Are you drawing directly with your brush...or do you do a drawing first in pencil?

Thank you, Karin, for taking the time to respond.

I work in 16" x 20".

Since I am just a beginner I work from a photo. I sketch the outline of the head first, then set the features from there.

I find myself getting more fussy about the quality of work, which is good.

It is still a lot of fun.

[Karin Wells]

Working from photos is a good idea and tracing off the head is a good way to teach yourself proportion and anatomical drawing.

When you can manage it, be sure to take your own photos and, most importantly, use a single source of light when you do so.

In the beginning of a painting it is a good idea to divide the face and/or figure into light and shadow. Shadow defines form and makes it look "real."

Here's a tip...don't ever make your heads life size or larger than life size.

Smaller is better. If you have a large canvas, just include more background or show more of the figure.

Thanks again Karin,

I made a few minor changes. I think it looks better. I will look at it again later on.

Thanks for your insightful tips.

I will take a break from painting and do the tracing you suggest.