Painting Portraits in Oils: Capturing character from life

YOUR GUIDE TO ALLA PRIMA PORTRAIT PAINTING: Learn how to paint stunning oil portraits from life as a world-renowned artist walks you through oil painting techniques and a step-by-step project.

Rob Wareing has built a formidable international reputation as a portrait artist. Here, he draws on over 40 years of experience to provide a complete guide to painting portraits in oils.

In Rob’s view, the most effective way to capture character is by working from life rather than photographs, and to follow the alla prima method to create a painting in one sitting. Starting with a fascinating overview of oil painting and portraiture, Rob then guides you through the materials he uses, how to pose and light the sitter, and how to prepare your work area before you start painting. This is followed by detailed coverage of drawing portraits; design and composition; the importance of proportions; and the painting process itself—from color mixing to finishing a painting without over-working.

With clear, step-by-step demonstrations and numerous examples of the author’s work throughout, this oil painting book provides both an expert guide to portrait painting and a unique insight into the working methods of one of the world’s leading portrait painters.