STEP 1: INDIA INK

After drawing the most basic shapes of the subject onto a heavy, watercolor paper, I use a very fine technical pen to lay in the darkest areas of the painting. I make sure to follow all the directions of the hair growth and in this way, I begin to sculpt out the form. It definitely helps to know your anatomy!

STEP 2: WATERCOLOR

After all the darkest values have been inked in, I then use watercolor to fill in the general colors of the subject. The main purpose of this is to provide a base for step 3 and to cover the white of the paper quickly and freely. If there is any true white in the subject it is important to leave that area clean, as the white of the paper is the truest white you can achieve with this method.

STEP 3: COLORED PENCIL

Now the real fun begins This is when I begin adding in all the fabulous details of the subject. I also add in all the wonderful, yet subtle colors that enhance the overall sense of three dimensions as well as breathe life into the entire piece. I try and make the viewer feel as if the subject is really right in front of them and that it is possible to just reach out and touch them. This is the most time consuming stage of the painting but it is the one I most enjoy and that allows me to achieve all the detail that I so love.