Sketch. by Denise Cat

It’s good, a likeness is secondary in the early stages of your development Denise! Is it the Strathmore toned gray paper that you have! Make sure your pencils are sharp, crisp and sharp lines are the order of the day… Jiri is an excellent portrait artist as I’m sure you are only too aware! Study his methods and you won’t go far wrong! Keep up the good work and dedication!

It is Alan, 11 inches x 14 inches. I'm just sharpening my pencils now. I'm excited to see what sort of a face the model has tonight and whether it's male or female. Yes, Jiri's portraits are excellent.

I like the sound and look of this paper and happy sketching Denise, yes, Jiri, is brilliant

Good to see the progress you are making Denise.

I find graphite very difficult for portraits so I think this is well on the way to be being a success Denise. You are doing so well with your portrait work.

I’ve got a selection of Strathmore sizes, in the thicker card as well as the thinner stuff. A really good support that I use are the sheets of mountboard. Not the Ingres with lines, don’t get that, but the smoother stuff, and there is a great range of subtle greys and beige for example. Worth having a browse when you’re next in an art shop.

I found it not to get concerned about likeness Denise. I go for structure and values.

A great sketch Denise , while I’m not a portrait artist and cannot offer advice on techniques I will say that your portrait work is getting better , it’s clear to se the progress your making.

Very nice drawing Denise.

Lovely sketch Denise xx

An interesting expression, good portrait Denise!

Really good portrait Denise.

Very nice drawing Denise and poised too! Well done!

Very good Denise.

Have to agree with Alan, his comments are so helpful for all of us!!

This is very good Denise, though lacks a few good darks

Thanks very much Heather, Chris, Carole, John, Paul, Russell, Christine, Carole, Cheryl, Andrew, Angela, Tessa, Thalia and Frank.

Another superb drawing Denise.