I have been wanting to do this for a while.
I have no idea how to paint realism, let alone draw it. But I have been experimenting over the last couple of months, and have had some degree of success sketching a self-portrait of sorts, and figured that it should inspire my first attempt at painting.
And that it did!
I studied the size of the canvas and compared it to the photo, and made little markings to cue where certain parts of my body would begin/end to maintain proper proportions.
Then I used a mechanical pencil to sketch out the lines making up my silhouette, as well as the details on my breast and belly.
I eyeballed it in that my pencil moved along the canvas as my eye followed the curves of my body. I am sure there is a more efficient way to sketch but this worked just fine for my purposes.
Then shading. I went into a very quiet head space when adding dimension to the portrait. I took breaks to stare, then would jump back in. Lots of staring breaks. Business as usual.
Then colour. Gold body. Pinky white shimmery background. Green, gold and pink heart centre. I wanted it to ooze vernal energy. Renewal. Rebirth. Sexual awakening. Abundance.
I am quite pleased with this first attempt. I usually hold a lot of loathing towards my belly (which makes me sad), but this painting celebrates a part of my body that grew and ushered life into the world, as well as another part that nourished that new life. Self-portraits have the power to affirm your self worth. That’s how it feels for me at least.
❤👽xoxoxo👽❤
You have every right to be pleased with your end result. It turned out wonderfully, and celebrated every bit of what you were looking to celebrate. I look forward to seeing more.
LikeLiked by 3 people
Beautiful and such depth to the emotion behind it. You should be proud of your work a double your body. Thanks for sharing yourself with us. 💋💖🌈
LikeLiked by 2 people
Thanks for the kind words, and for allowing me to share in a supportive environment. 😁😁😁
LikeLike
Awwwwwwww
What a sweet thing to say. It is much deserved. 💖💋
LikeLiked by 1 person
I like the Black and White version very much
LikeLiked by 1 person
Thank you. 😊
LikeLike
😊👍
LikeLiked by 1 person
Very beautiful piece. I’ve also been toying with the idea of doing the same thing myself actually. It’s been so long since I’ve drawn or painted myself that I am feeling that pull to work some healing for myself using that medium again. I hope that you keep this part of your art going because it’s so encouraging and beautiful to watch as you walk through it. Much love, lovely woman!
LikeLiked by 2 people
Thank you so much, Tara. Your words mean a lot. And I agree that you should go for it!
LikeLiked by 1 person