Queen E by Winterhalter | ANATOMY OF A STUDY
Added 2025-07-30 18:14:55 +0000 UTC*EDIT: reuploading because the last video didn't properly upload!
In this episode of Anatomy of a Study, I break down my full process painting from a master portrait, focusing on colour, value structure, and brushwork. It’s my first real study in a while (and my first time painting on the iPad again in forever), so I let myself explore, experiment, and rebuild my workflow from the ground up.
Here’s what I dive into:
How to analyze values and planes when studying a portrait
Why colour blocking early on saves your painting later
The mindset shift: stop perfecting too early. Start with bigger shapes first
Using background colour in the figure to create harmony
How to push your hues without breaking realism
Comparing watercolour vs. gouache brushes for digital oil-style painting
The magical last 5%: gradients, blend modes, and subtle lighting tweaks
Whether you're studying from life or a masterwork, this approach helps you not just copy, but understand the painting - and find ways to add your own voice in the process.
Brushes Used:
MaxPacks Watercolour Brush Set (US$25)
MaxPacks Gouache Brush Set (US$20)
Let me know what painting I should study next!
