Ken Jarvela by Jim McVicker.
This is, by far, one of my favorite watercolor portraits of all time. McVicker did this work in a session with Jarvela in 2008 and, thank goodness, someone recorded it and shared it on YouTube. (Warning: Strong language).
McVicker’s style is much more realistic than this portrait may lead you to believe. Which is one of the many reasons why I love it. I love when artists go outside of their comfort zones and really try to do something completely different. For me, since I am just beginning, everything is new and completely different.
I hope to one day be able to do a portrait in this style just like this.
The stuff I love most about this piece is probably obvious but I’ll jot them down anyway. LOOK AT THAT NOSE! As the subject said near the end of the video – “I love how you did the blue and just left it.” And the contrast between the left and right sides.
I suggest watching the video.