Project Overview
Working on this colored pencil portrait was not just a technical exercise, but also a experience that helped me understand the power of slow observation. I wanted my portrait to reward viewers who spend more time with it, and I explored this idea particularly through my use of color. I intentionally layered contrasting hues like greens, purples, and oranges across the face to break away from traditional skin tones. This creates a visual vibration, especially in the shadowed areas. My aim was not to reproduce a lifelike image, but to reconstruct a remembered or felt impression of a moment.
I tried to avoid rigid outlines and instead blended the background slightly into the hair, letting the boundaries remain soft and open to interpretation. This challenges the viewer’s figure-ground expectations, and encourages them to explore the piece with greater care and patience.
