Introducing our new baby, little Archer. He’s the sweetest tiny guy and it’s been such a beautiful and busy eight months since he was born. I’ve been wanting to add him into the family portrait painting I made before he came along. It’s taken me awhile, but I’ve finally finished. I thought it would be cool to show you my process for making portraits.
I start out with a photograph that I love. In this case, I’m adding baby Archer to an existing painting, so I had a print out of the family portrait handy. That way I can match the style and colors.
It usually takes me several tries to get the sketch how I like it. I begin with the basic form, then add in my Lupita style circles, chevrons, stars, stripes, and style. These are just two of the fifteen or so sketches I made on plain white paper. Then the fourth one is the final sketch on watercolor paper.
Let the painting begin! I almost always start with the face then move outward in a circle from there. I’m not sure why…it just seems the most natural way for me to paint a person.
Once the painting is complete, I scan it into my computer and use Photoshop to add it to the larger family portrait.
I hope to eventually re-paint the entire family portrait so all the colors match exactly. With two small children at home it may take some time, but one day soon! 🙂
Blessings,
Emily Lupita
Artist & Author
