Realistic Self-portrait

Value Strip

This piece I found especially difficult because I have a hard time with the way I look. Having to break my face down into smaller sections helped me to avoid being too critical of myself.

I used different graphite values to add detail and shading and tried to make the drawing as realistic as possible. I enjoy the grid method because of how much easier it is to focus on the details rather than get distracted and lose some of the smaller details.

If I was to redo this project I would pay closer attention to the different values in my hair and make sure to draw the hair less string-like. I would also add more highlight to the eyes to give them a glossier look rather than the flat look.