There are various ways to achieve a sharp edge, and one of my favorites is using a bristle fan brush into wet paint, as demonstrated by John Sargent. In this video, I discuss how to use a round sable brush to refine painting on dry canvas.
You can see an early stage of one of my portraits, which was still in its initial layers at the time. Despite being an early stage, I've applied a solid foundation to block out key elements, setting the stage for further refinement.
Attention & Focus
I'm very meticulous about recognizing which part of each stroke I want to draw attention to and which part is less important, creating a sequential order of focus that applies to each stroke. This approach ultimately helps me create a clear visual flow in my paintings.
Creating Pattern
As an artist, we're familiar with the concept of color controlling where our eye looks, and contrast controlling where it focuses. However, pattern also plays a crucial role in directing the viewer's attention. Texture isn't just about the thickness of paint; it's also about replicating the surface, conveying psychological meaning through the brushstroke, and guiding the viewer's gaze to specific areas.
Round Brush - Sable or Synthetic
When refining your painting, especially at later stages, try using a round brush - either sable or synthetic, depending on your preference. I've had tremendous success with these brushes and show examples of my work in prominent institutions like the Smithsonian National Portrait Gallery in Washington D.C. and the Carter Library in Atlanta, Georgia.
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