This custom hand painted art portrait began with a simple sketch.
Click on each image to view enlargement and slide show which can be paused (ll).
The custom portrait begins with a pencil sketch of the subject on Crescent Illustration Board.
The next step is to completely cover the portrait with clear mat frisket film.
In order to paint areas separately and prevent overspray from the airbrush, sections of the frisket film are removed.
After a section is airbrushed, it is recovered with frisket film for protection while a new area is painted.
Sharp edges are created when areas such as the background are airbrushed and then covered over with frisket film for protection from overspray while a new area is painted like the shoulder.
Some freehand airbrushing is done on the face, hands and hair for dimension and depth. Fine details are added with color pencil.
The portrait is finally complete with a complimentary frame.
