The Study of Richard Brooks

Mixed medium 5"x 5"

The fourth of the series of complementary colors is the study of the successful movie director and screen writer Richard Brooks. He has directed legendary movies such as, “Blackboard Jungle”, “Cat on A Hot Tin Roof” and “Looking for Mr. Good Bar”. For this technique a green wash was applied then a red and white colored pencils were used for the details and highlights.

I enjoy drawing profiles when it comes to face studies for portraits.

It seems more dramatic and profiles also say a lot about the person.

Study of woman in red

Mixed medium 5"x5"

The third of the series of complementary colors, this time a red water color wash was used. Green colored pencil was used for the darks and shadows. The white color pencil was used for the highlights.

The Study of Quincy Jones

Mixed medium 5"x 5"

The study of the legendary Music Composer, Quincy Jones, is the second of the series of complementary colors. Purple watercolor wash with yellow color pencil was used. The purple wash wasn't dark enough and the yellow color pencil wasn't light enough so I went back in to the dark areas with purple colored pencil. For the highlights, yellow and white colored pencils was use specially for the smoke from the cigarette.

I have a special love and admiration for Quincy Jones because he is a musical genius, pure talent. Everything he touched, turned into “Gold!” He is extraordinary producer who was not afraid to follow his true vision. Mr. Q broke a lot carriers in the music industry specially soundtracks for movies and has produced revolutionary albums for the already successful talents including the late Michael Jackson.

Study of Madonna

This was a short series in my sketchpad, experimenting with complementary colors.

The first one was this reference of the musical performer, Madonna.

I played around with the combination of yellow background purple color pencil and white colored pencil for highlights. This is not a flattering color for her skin but it was just a study of the exact colors, yellow and purple with little mixing as possible.

Madonna song and video, “Ray of Light” was very popular and successful at the time. It was inspiring to me. Not afraid of self expression. She also was studying Kabbalism which will probably explain her interesting design on her face. Not sure, don't quote me !

Study of Will Smith

Mixed medium 5" x 5"

BIG WILL .............

Famous rapper of, “Parents just don't to stand”, “Summertime”, “Will 2K”, “Getting Jiggy With It”.

Famous actor with hit tv show,” Fresh Prince of Bel Air”, Successful movie actor of blockbusters including, “Enemy of The State”, “Bad Boys”, and “Men in Black”.

Becoming comfortable with my quick sketches, I'm not concerned with a portrait style sketch, but just getting the essence of the actor Will Smith, especially with his well known ears.

A very quick sketch with the use of watercolor wash, marker, pen and ink.

Study Of BSB with Steven Tyler

Mixed medium 5" x 5"

What a fantastic photo! 

Was my first thought. The great rocker Steven Tyler of the legendary rock group Aerosmith is posing with a few members from The Backstreet Boys.

 I was excited to start this sketch. A watercolor wash was applied to the background followed by charcoal pencil sketch.  Poor Kevin, almost didn't make it in my sketch. Still adjusting to the proportions.

Study of a man

Conte crayons 5"x 5"

For this sketch, conté crayons were used. I wasn't paying attention to the man’s proportion . The next thing I knew, I had elongated his face, Who knows. maybe I was tired and not focused.



Still, an interesting study.