An inspiring and comprehensive guide to painting beautiful portraits in oils, from beloved teacher and master artist, Rob Wareing.
'If you've ever wanted to try your hand at portraiture, there's no better place to get started.' - Supporting All Artists (SAA)
In this highly regarded book, now available in paperback, renowned portrait artist Rob Wareing distils 40 years of experience into insightful, easy-to-follow lessons.
This inspirational guide shows you how to paint beautiful portraits in one sitting. It leads you through all aspects of portraiture, from the first steps of finding and lighting your model, through the practical aspects of mixing for value and colour, to the sitting itself.
Inside you'll find:
- which paints, brushes and tools to use;
- step-by-step example portraits;
- guidance on composition, drawing and backgrounds.
With clear, step-by-step demonstrations and numerous examples of the Rob's inspiring work throughout, this book provides both an expert guide to portrait painting and a unique insight into the working methods of a generationally talented portrait painter.
This is a paperback edition of the original best-selling hardback.
'It wasn’t Rob’s technical prowess alone that won me over. I asked him for advice, which he shared readily, and his passion for and commitment to his chosen pursuit sealed the deal. This is what the best teachers do: they share, encourage and inspire. Portrait artists at every level will benefit from his insight and expertise.' Tinus Horn
Table of Contents
Foreword 6
Introduction 8
Working from life 10
What makes a portrait? 12
Materials 22
Composing your paintings 34
Preparation 36
Drawing and painting 56
Drawing skills 58
Painting alla prima 70
Values 82
Colour 92
Skin tone 106
The sitting 116
The Portrait 118
Going further 134
Other types of portrait 136
Settings and background 156
Index 160
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About Rob Wareing
Rob Wareing was born in South Africa. After finishing his education he travelled extensively, receiving private tuition from various portrait painters in the USA and Europe, as well as studying the techniques of traditional classical painting. He became a professional portrait painter at the age of 23 and his subsequent career spanned more than four decades.
During that time, Rob painted numerous portraits of people of all nationalities, and received many commissions to paint dignitaries, CEOs and their families in countries including the USA, Mauritius, Botswana, South Africa and the UK. He also gave live portrait demonstrations on TV shows in the USA, Mauritius and South Africa.
Rob gained a considerable following on YouTube, and wrote articles for various art publications including The Artist (UK), Paint (SAA), Artists & Illustrators, International Artist and The South African Artist. His first book, Painting Portraits in Oils, was published by Search Press in January 2021.
Sadly, Rob died in August 2021, but his legacy will live on for many years to come.
