For my observation project I decided to depict my family in separate portraits. In each portrait I utilized a medium that represented their personality. For my Father I used charcoal. He can be harsh, but he can also be very soft; with this I decided to use a range of shading and blending.
As for my Mother, I used chalk pastels. By using this medium I represented her sweetness, and her beauty inside and out.
My sister, on the other hand, is girly and fun. I used watercolor to emphasize her light and bubbly personality. At this point I am still unfinished, but I will post pictures of the final product!
I also drew a self portrait, which gave me much more difficulty than the others. I drew four different attempts until the latest represented me. Hopefully with time I will get better at it! This one is also unfinished but here is the sketch so far. I plan on using collage as my medium, because so many things, past and present, have influenced my personality and style.
Here are some work in progress pictures!
With this project, I was able to take risks; I decided to use mediums that I had never used before. This proved a challenge, but one that I am glad that I'd had accomplished. Also, I was able to communicate through my work; I was able to show my family's personalities and their dynamic. Now, a brief history on portraits! Early representation of humans can be seen in art and sculptures from Paleolithic tribes. In particular, fertility statues like that of the Venus of Willendorf, represented portraiture of women. Portraits were brought to the forefront throughout the existence of ancient civilizations. The Egyptians loved to paint portraits of pharaohs and gods. With this, portraiture has evolved throughout history to what it is today.
For more information:
http://www.family-portrait.net/portraithistory.php
http://www.visual-arts-cork.com/genres/portrait-art.htm
For more information:
http://www.family-portrait.net/portraithistory.php
http://www.visual-arts-cork.com/genres/portrait-art.htm