Progress of the self-portrait

self portrait
On the right the finished version

Three weeks ago I showed you the progress of the self-portrait. I said that in the end I was not entirely convinced by the result. Many people left a comment and a few had suggestions for adjustments. I also was asked to show the final result. Here is the outcome as it will be shipped to London next week. I actually have not done much but for me it changed substantially. The rub was in the background. My aim is always to match the subject and background in order to let them take part in one and the same atmosphere, in a believable way. In the first version there was too much blue and that was the reason there was no “palpable air” provided. What did I do in the background? With a broad brush I applied a layer of Raw sienna, extremely diluted with W & N Oil Liquin. In order to distribute it evenly I rubbed it with a cloth. Now temperature has changed and it looks better.

I also “calmed down” some brushstrokes on the left of my face, and I added a few accents in the lights and the darks.

4 Replies to “Progress of the self-portrait”

  1. Petje af. Het licht is nu adembenemend. Mooi zoals je start met de arm met penseel en je blik dan via arm met doek , witte shirt naar het gezicht wordt gestuurd.

  2. A terrific solution Ben. I am a bit amazed these small changes have such a large effect on the look of the portrait. Very nice.

  3. Its far much better… the blue was quite was strong. and what if the sweater had a warm colour? Just asking. but its awesome.

  4. Magnifique ! On voit bien la progression, la luminosité qui apparaît petit à petit ! Bravo !

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