Illustration in Oils
Artist: John Potter
I painted this portrait of my daughter when she was a baby. It is oil on stretched canvas. I worked in the old masters' tradition of painting dark to light. The underpainting shows through in the darker skin tones.
I also added some playful patterns to the composition. The subject called for something light, and the patterns keep the painting from feeling too formal or stiff for a child's portrait.
This piece was primarily an exercise to keep my drawing and painting skills sharp. You can see the same foundational abilities at work in many of my other portraits and figure paintings. The approach is the same whether the subject is a baby or an adult. Observe carefully. Draw accurately. Build the paint with intention.
If you are considering a portrait of your own child, a family member, or yourself, contact me to discuss the project. I work in oils and acrylics and welcome both formal and informal approaches.
PAINTINGS:
PORTRAITS:
PORTFOLIOS
- Illustration Portfolio: Start here for custom illustration and book covers. You can also browse illustrated maps and architectural rendering.
- Fine Art: I offer original paintings and drawings, including my Custom Halftone Series. You will also find mural work here.
- Graphic Design & Motion: View my graphic design portfolio. After that, explore motion design and animated illustrations.
- Maps by application: I create illustrated maps for boat shows, resorts, marinas, real estate, transportation, transit and parking, towns and cities, parks, and wayfinding.
- Additional project types: I also produce cover illustration, vehicle and vinyl wraps, proposal renderings, and street art.
- Illustration methods: My techniques include vector, isometric and axonometric, painting, black and white, GeoData maps, overhead maps, and custom halftones.
- Software portfolios: I work primarily in Adobe Photoshop, Adobe Illustrator, SketchUp Pro, and Adobe InDesign. For motion projects, I use Premiere Pro and After Effects. You can watch my demo reel here.