How to Paint a Realistic Acrylic Portrait in 5 Steps

Introduction

• The speaker, Matt Philleo, has 24 years of experience in commissioned portrait painting.
• The lecture is about the five-step process to create a realistic acrylic portrait, applicable even to oil painters.
• Importance of starting with a good photo reference.
• Amateur snapshots often lack necessary lighting and detail.

Step 1: Start Right With a Sketch

• A good sketch is crucial for composition, likeness, and detail.
• Center the subject on canvas; head and shoulders should fill 1/3-1/2 of canvas height.
• Use a pastel or charcoal pencil for sketching instead of graphite; easier to erase and blends better with paint.
• Seal the sketch with a clear acrylic medium to protect it during painting.

Step 2: Define Your Values

• Values refer to areas of light and dark in artwork.
• Start with a translucent glaze and apply it over the sketch to mute it slightly.
• Use darker glazes to establish tonal values and contours in the painting.
• Realistic paintings separate objects by value and color rather than lines.

Step 3: Keep on Adding Value

• Add multiple glazes to build richness and depth.
• Adjust background colors, using warmer tones like burnt sienna and lighter tones like raw sienna.
• Define facial features carefully, like shadows under the nose and glasses.
• Use color contrasts and avoid black; create 'black' using a mix of blues and browns.
• Use cool colors for darker values and warm colors for lighter values.

Step 4: Clarify and Refine Your Painting

• Focus on adding nuances and small details to make the painting compelling.
• Capture the essence of the subject, especially in memoriam portraits.
• Pay attention to the reflection of light in the eyes, as they are crucial for likeness.
• Ensure the iris's color and eyebrow placement are accurate.

Step 5: Finalize it and Bring it Home

• Reach the stage where the painting starts looking polished.
• Add final touches like veins under the skin or highlights on lips for realism.
• Use warm colors to brighten lighter areas.
• Suggest hair texture without over-detailing.
• Finish the painting when it no longer adds visual appeal or when approved by the client.

Conclusion

• The final portrait should resemble a photograph or real image.
• Pay attention to subtle color differences in the face.
• The painting is done when it reaches a level of quality and is approved by the client.
• Acrylics allow for quick completion due to fast drying.

Additional Resources

• Matt Philleo offers a free Acrylic Portrait Painting Challenge.
• Includes supplies list, palette guide, reference photo, and video lessons.
• Access to a private Facebook group for feedback and encouragement.

Final Notes

• The tutorial is designed to help painters at any level improve their portrait skills.
• Encourages asking for divine help to capture the essence of the subject.