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.
PORTRAITS:
BROWSE MY WORK
- Illustration: Browse custom illustrations, book cover art, illustrated maps, and architectural renderings.
- Fine art: View original paintings and drawings, the Custom Halftone Series, and mural commissions.
- Graphic design & motion: See design projects, then watch motion reels and animated pieces.
- Maps by use case: Explore illustrated maps created for boat shows, resorts, marinas, real estate, transportation & parking, cities & towns, parks, and wayfinding.
- Specialty projects: Also check out cover design, vinyl & vehicle wraps, proposal renderings, and street art.
- Style & technique: Discover vector, isometric, painterly, monochrome, data-driven, bird's-eye, and halftone approaches.
- Tools I use: Everyday software includes Photoshop, Illustrator, SketchUp, and InDesign; motion work relies on Premiere & After Effects.