Step by Step: From The Renaissance to an RPG

1 inspiration from the classics

This portrait was inspired from Renaissance portraits of young ladies by the likes of Botticelli and Raphael. The initial sketch was drawn from my imagination. Afterwards, I photographed a model and began a second, more detailed, drawing using the photo reference.

2 Get some digital help

Here, the tonal underpainting is finished. I use acrylics because I can move the gouache layers around on top without disturbing it. Before I apply the local colour, I adjust my photos in Photoshop and print it in both warm and white light. This helps me see the skin tones more accurately.

3 Spot mistakes in the mirror

After many hours of working, day after day, your eyes grow accustomed to the piece and it becomes harder to discern mistakes. I take frequent breaks and often turn the painting upside to see the elements afresh. Holding the painting up to a mirror will also reveal errors.