Impression Evergreen

"Lukas in Black and White" Colored Pencil Lukas is 20 years old and this portrait is a simplified description composed in black and white. Not intended to be a photographic likeness, the sitter’s unique personality is expressed through deliberate exaggeration. The young man’s head is close-cropped bringing his vigorous presence up close and personal. His jet-black hair is splayed off the page while some unruly strands hang down over the forehead. Luke’s bright eyes are the focal point so they are the most precise feature while there is less detail as the drawing radiates out to the edges. The sharp contrast between light and dark defines his appearance. The thick nose and full lips cast soft shadows that create the illusion of three dimensions. The prominent chin is the centerpiece of a rugged jawline, creating a rigid contour that is his most striking characteristic. The facial structure is built upon the foundation of a powerful neck that betrays the physical tenacity posse...

"Dark Self-Portrait" Colored Pencil Composed in a somber shadow of murkiness, the resulting work is a dark self-portrait. A sliver of illumination creates a streak of highlights that defines the firm structure of an antique face. The side sunk in deep shadow is described by a limited palette of gold, orange and dark brown. Soft shading is employed to graduate from one tone to another evoking an aura of still calm. The understated mood and stingy color scheme is inspired by the work of the masters of old. Another experiment in line, form, color and chiaroscuro and less a study in the psychology of the sitter. Thin, wavy hair tops a high forehead that has been wrinkled by time. Searching intensely for the essential features, black eyes are set into deep sockets below a sharp brow ridge. A broad nose casts the darkest shadow that blends seamlessly into the ochre cheek. The stern mouth is delineated by reddish lips that dissolve into a prominent jowl. The pinkish ear is more tran...