In this online workshop we’ll paint two portraits together – one in monotone and one in full colour – with the goal of helping you create work that feels painterly, confident, and alive rather than tight or overworked.

We’ll begin with a monotone portrait to simplify the process and train your eye. This first demonstration will focus on the foundations that make portraits read: brushwork, edges, tonal value, composition, and practical water control (how timing and moisture affect softness, clarity, and flow). You’ll learn how to build form with a few well-placed shapes, and how to use edge variety to guide the viewer and create mood.

In the second demonstration we’ll shift into a full-colour portrait, applying the same structure while introducing colour temperature and more fluid passages. We’ll look at how warm and cool notes can shape skin, light, and atmosphere, and how to keep your washes fresh while still making intentional choices about where to sharpen, soften, and simplify.

Private Workshop Hosted by Clarkson Society of Artists