quiet dignity

6x8" original gouache painting on toned paper

The Strathmore toned paper is wonderful to paint on however, for this piece, I decide to darken the background a bit with some lovely purple. I think it helps her white hair 'pop'. ; )

Portraits Workshop - APRIL 25, '20

SATURDAY APRIL 25, 2020!

I'll be teaching a Portraits Workshop here in Toronto with the Willowdale Group of Artists. I'm really looking forward to it. 

Here's the description - 

PORTRAITS

with Nora MacPhail

In this workshop we will explore an approach to portraits using an easy-to-remember way to block-in. This method includes using measurements for finding facial features, as well as using comparisons to find a likeness. Common mistakes and how to improve them will also be reviewed. No more struggling with egg heads and wonky eyes. ; ) 

I will do demos using photographs. Artist will be doing lots of drawing (bring your sketchbooks!) and we will be painting with watercolour. 

CONTACT ADELE - wgaworkshops@gmail.com

MEDIUM - Watercolour (and Drawing Materials).

PHOTOS - Bring your copyright free reference photos of adults (no children - those measurements are different). Try to find photos that are close ups of the head and shoulders with contrasting lighting. I will bring extra photos for participants to work from.

MATERIALS - 

Bring painting supplies you like and what you’re used to. Materials list is attached.

You can check out my work on Instagram at noramacphailart or my online art gallery at -  https://www.dailypaintworks.com/Artists/nora-macphail-1599

SEE YOU THERE!

calm

$60 - 6x8" original gouache painting on grey paper

Update - this painting is hanging in a show for the month of February.

It was wonderful to paint from life today. 

Lately I've been working from photos (from the awesome app 'sktchy') and it's a great way to learn. Taking that information and applying it to painting a live model has been the best way for me to progress. Back and forth, from photos to life... so far it fits!

I think I caught the calmness of this fellow artist!

jewels

$80 - 5x7"original watercolour painting with 8x10"mat

This is my second recent portrait with a model wearing sunglasses. It's fun painting eyes behind colourful glass! 

Here's the original sketch. 

shades

 $80 - 6x8" original watercolour painting 
I think with all this oil and gouache painting, my watercolours process has changed. I can't quite put my finger on it, still mulling it over, but I certainly want more completion and depth from watercolour. Thick paint gives volume immediately so, I guess, I'm trying to 'flesh out' (pun intended) my watercolours.
Here's the charcoal drawing before painting. : )

upward

$60 - 5x7" original watercolour painting with 8x10" mat
I loved painting her eyes! And this time I added some greens to the shadows,  instead of using purple as I often do. 
Here are two more photos, including the original charcoal sketch on newsprint. Check out my Instagram account for even more!

a friendly face

$60 -8x10" original watercolour painting.

Lately, I've been missing watercolour. The look is so light and fresh. So, here's today's daily painting.

all together

$60 - 6x6" original oil painting on 1" deep panel.

I loved painting the little circles on the vase! This low strong lighting, (an idea I got from the awesome dailypainter Lisa Daria) is really cool. Such wonderful contrasts! Check out pics below...

friendship

$60 - 6x6" original oil painting on 1"deep panel.

These flowers/friends all have their own style and personalities. But they get along great!

(still a bit wet... shipped Jan 9, '20/sides painted yellow to match background)
Details -

father of the bride

$60 - 6x6" original oil painting on 1" deep panel

All the purple friends and guests are watching the big sunflower give away his daughter. ; )

(still a bit wet... shipped after Jan. 9, '20/sides painted same turquoise as background colour)
Details -