A self portrait can be realistic or abstract, or can use symbols to represent the person. It is a portrait of you created by you. Why would a person want to use his or her self as a model? Artists who used self portraiture are Frida Kahlo, Vincent Van Gogh, Pablo Picasso, Andy Warhol, Albrecht Durer and many others.
In this portrait of Van Gogh you see a 3/4 view, and the symmetry in the features. Compositional elements here are use of color (repetition, unity), brush strokes, and a darker foreground than background.
To begin your self portrait, start with an oval for the face, and divide into equal thirds. Here is a LINK to show you how to set up a portrait. We will be drawing one portrait and copying it onto another sheet exactly the same size, then finishing each differently. Think about what makes you individual. What colors do you see in yourself?
When the portraits are done, we will be weaving them together to form ONE portrait. Like this:
When the portraits are done, we will be weaving them together to form ONE portrait. Like this:
After your woven portrait is complete, follow the steps in this LINK to cut a mat to frame your picture. It's Easy!!