Go! Go! Go!
Now all that is left is to actually create the abstract self-portrait. The planning and brainstorming part of the process is done. It is just a matter of executing the plan at this point.
Here is an overview of the main steps for implementing my design:
Draw and paint the background layer.
Create stencil from the selected photo.
Use stencil to paint outlined visage (foreground layer).
Without further ado, let’s go, go, go!
Paint background layer.
Completing the background layer will be more challenging than the foreground layer because it is free-hand painting.
But, I’m just going to let myself have fun and go with the flow.
Plus, I have a great blueprint to start with.
Sketchbook excerpt of chosen design for background layer.
Alrighty! I am very happy with this background layer and ready to move on!
First (background) layer on canvas done.
Create stencil from the selected photo.
Creating the foreground layer is pretty straightforward. It is a technical process that is more tedious than it is difficult, requiring mainly patience.
Basically, after cropping the photo I selected, I upload my photo into an online tool that will obtain an outline from my photo.
Side note: There are a lot of online tools, both free and paid versions, to select from. I usually use this site to quickly obtain photo outlines. A bit rough around the edges, but the tool does the trick. And it’s free!
Obtain outline-stencil here: https://online.rapidresizer.com/photograph-to-pattern.php
After some configuration, I obtain my outlined visage as shown below. After downloading the file, I print and cut out the stencil.
Use stencil to paint outlined visage (foreground layer).
Stencil made using yellow transfer paper and held in place on the canvas using painter’s tape.
Once I painstakingly cut out the stencil, I position it on the canvas and use painter’s tape to hold it in place.
I use a dark blue color to paint the outlined visage.
Once I have this first blue layer, I remove the stencil and touch up the face layer with other cool colors.
And there we have it folks!
The final artwork. My abstract self-portrait, Empowered.
Empowered, a self-portrait. Acrylic on canvas. 8 in. x 10 in. (20.3 cm x 25.4 cm). 2020
Thank you for following along throughout this blog series.
I hope you were able to come away with something useful or at the very least enjoyed the ride as I shared my creative process.
