Stage 5
Now for the finishing touches. Small sable brushes are used to put in the finer details, particularly around the eyes. The mouth and nose are also areas that need attention if they are to look soft and moist, this calls for subtle blending along with some crisp highlights. The eyes must have a moist look to be convincing, and the highlights here are most important, they will add the life and sparkle. Sometimes a glaze of pure colour can be applied over the top of part, or all of the subject to adjust and unify the colour. I hope you have enjoyed my demonstration and that now you can see just what goes into creating a portrait. My approach to each painting may be similar, but every finished piece will be totally unique.
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