When I’m stuck on a face, I often set aside my brushes and fingerpaint.
This keeps me unattached to my character rather than getting into my head and “thinking” the eyes and features should look a certain way or be a certain shape.
Yet even after lots of layers, the eyes can still look too perfect and painted on.
That’s when I make a mess. I cover up more of my lines with paint pen, pour water on top, then add more water-soluble pencil smudges at the lashes to create softness (and beautiful mistakes).
It’s pretty common for me to repaint my eyes at least ten times. Layer by layer, smudge by smudge, they begin to emerge and eventually resonate with my heart.
Registration is open for the Portrait Painting Masterclass – Fall 2023!
Here’s a little of what Portraits class alumni are saying:
“I couldn’t wait every day to see the next lesson and drive into my paints. I found a lot of freedom and joy in the process of creating these paintings.” -Pam Cook
“I loved everything about this class! Painting faces has been something I’ve shied away from, as they seemed so intimidating before. But Juliette made the process so easy, AND FUN! I have learned so much and actually LIKE what I painted! I have joy in painting faces now!” -Dr. Cortney Baker
“This class style really accelerated my ability to lean into my style rather than trying to follow step-by-step instructions with the goal of replicating what Juliette made.” –Meg McAlister
“I simply LOVED this class. I never could imagine that I’d ever be able to create these great ladies. Your instruction and the repetition in the daily painting sections made me so much more confident and able.” -Dheera Kitchlu
“I LOVED your portrait painting class so much and feel such gratitude. I’m not a morning person by nature—at all—but each day at 5:50 a.m., it was a joy to wake to my alarm clock and know that it was time to see what that day’s new lesson would bring.” -Savannah Stoner
I’d be honored to have you join me for this new class. It’s going to be so good and I can’t wait to see the gorgeous paintings you create!
With love + gratitude,
xo Juliette
PS In case you missed my interview with the lovely Kate Shepherd for The Creative Genius Podcast – we talk about my creative process and my journey to becoming a full-time artist.