Amanirenas The African Queen

Short Guide to Black & White Portrait Drawings with Charcoal and Pastels

Mediums Used:

Mixing of Charcoal set-24 sketches Faber-Castell brand, Blockx brand Soft Pastels set-72, Faber-Castell 21-set B&W Monochrome & White soft pastel pencil, Winsor & Newton Fixative on Pastelist Paper (Pastelmat Paper/Sandy Paper) from Clairefontaine brand.

The Artistic Process:

I am absolutely thrilled to share my artistic journey with you, as it has been a fulfilling and exciting experience! My process begins with establishing a solid foundational sketch using my preferred charcoal set 24. This initial stage is crucial, as it involves outlining the key features of my subject and laying down the base layers that will form the roadmap for the following creative exploration.

After constructing a secure base, I transition to adding the captivating mid-tones using the Soft Pastels from the BLOCKX brand. The richness of these pastels truly invigorates my work, allowing me to create evocative shadows and intricate textures that breathe life into each piece. The sheer joy of blending the pastels with my fingers is an almost meditative experience—it allows for a tactile connection with the artwork that feels like pure magic! 😁 ✨💥

For the intricate detailing—the skin textures, the subtle reflections in the eyes, the delicate strands of hair, the nuances of facial expressions, and the contours of lips and noses—I turn to my cherished Faber-Castell Pitt pastel pencils from the 21-set Monochrome B&W collection. These pencils enable me to execute fine lines and painstaking details with precision. The addition of the soft white pencil is particularly important for creating highlights that make my black and white drawings truly pop, adding a three-dimensional quality that draws the viewer in.

As for my choice of canvas, I adore working on the special Pastelist Paper or Pastelmat Paper from Clairefontaine. The soft, sandy texture of the paper is perfectly suited for charcoal and pastel mediums, allowing the colors to adhere beautifully without smudging. This surface not only keeps my work neat but also facilitates stunning color absorption, ensuring that every stroke is impactful and vibrant.

To protect my finished pieces and maintain their vividness over time, I apply a light mist of Winsor & Newton fixative. This final touch secures the artwork, preventing smudging and ensuring its longevity so that viewers can enjoy my creations for years to come.

It is my heartfelt hope that my artwork brings joy and inspiration to all who encounter it. I encourage everyone to let their creativity flow, immerse themselves in the drawing process, and enjoy every moment of artistic expression!