Creating Stunning Abstract Watercolor Portraits: Techniques, Tips, and Best Practices

Written by Daisie Team

Published on 21 June 2023 8 min read

Creating abstract watercolor portraits can be an incredibly rewarding artistic endeavor. With the right techniques, tips, and best practices, you can produce stunning, unique pieces that will surely impress. In this blog, we'll guide you through the process of choosing your materials, setting up your workspace, and mastering the techniques needed to create your own abstract watercolor portraits.

1. Selecting Your Materials

First and foremost, let's talk about the materials you'll need for your abstract watercolor portrait journey. The right tools can make all the difference in the quality and ease of your work. We'll cover paper type, watercolor brands, and brushes.

Paper Type

Choosing the right paper is essential for successful watercolor painting. Here are some factors to consider:

Weight: Opt for heavier paper, at least 140 lbs (300 gsm), to prevent warping and buckling.
Texture: Watercolor paper comes in three textures: hot-pressed (smooth), cold-pressed (medium texture), and rough. Cold-pressed paper is the most popular choice for abstract watercolor portraits.
Material: 100% cotton paper is more durable and absorbent than wood pulp-based paper, making it an excellent choice for watercolor painting.

Watercolor Brands

There are countless watercolor brands available, but not all are created equal. For abstract watercolor portraits, we recommend using artist-grade paints for their higher pigment concentration and superior mixing capabilities. Some well-known artist-grade brands include:

Winsor & Newton
Daniel Smith
M. Graham
Sennelier

Brushes

A good set of brushes is key to creating beautiful abstract watercolor portraits. Here are some guidelines for selecting the right brushes:

Size: A variety of brush sizes will help you achieve different levels of detail. A large wash brush for backgrounds, a medium round brush for broad strokes, and small detail brushes are all useful.
Shape: Round, flat, and angled brushes are versatile and suitable for most techniques.
Material: Synthetic or natural hair brushes both have their benefits, but ultimately it's a matter of personal preference. Just be sure to choose brushes designed specifically for watercolor painting.

2. Preparing Your Workspace

Now that you have your materials ready, it's time to set up your workspace. A well-organized and comfortable workspace can make a significant difference in your abstract watercolor portrait creation process. We'll go over lighting, organizing supplies, and protecting surfaces.

Lighting

Good lighting is crucial for accurately assessing colors and details in your work. Here are some tips for setting up the perfect lighting for your abstract watercolor portraits:

Opt for natural daylight or full-spectrum artificial light to ensure true color representation.
Position your light source at a 45-degree angle to your work surface to avoid glare and shadows.
Consider using a clamp-on desk lamp for adjustable and focused lighting.

Organizing Supplies

An organized workspace can help you focus and work efficiently. Keep your supplies within reach and maintain a clutter-free environment by following these suggestions:

Use a palette with multiple wells for mixing colors and keep it close to your painting surface.
Store brushes, pencils, and other tools in containers or holders for easy access.
Keep a clean cloth or paper towel nearby for wiping brushes and cleaning up spills.

Protecting Surfaces

Watercolor painting can be messy, and it's essential to protect your workspace surfaces from potential damage. Here are a few ways to safeguard your work area:

Place a waterproof tablecloth or plastic sheet under your work surface to catch spills and drips.
Use painter's tape to secure paper to a drawing board, preventing it from moving while you work.
Consider investing in an art mat or protective pad specifically designed for painting to keep your workspace clean and functional.

3. Sketching the Portrait

Before diving into painting, it's helpful to sketch the portrait first. This will serve as a foundation for your abstract watercolor portraits. We'll cover using reference photos, facial proportions, and expressions to create a strong base for your artwork.

Using Reference Photos

Reference photos can be a valuable tool when sketching your portrait. They provide guidance on facial features, lighting, and composition. Keep these tips in mind when using reference photos:

Choose a clear, well-lit photo to capture accurate facial features and shadows.
Consider using a photo editing tool to adjust the image to your desired level of abstraction or color palette.
Remember, reference photos are a starting point—feel free to modify and adjust as you work to create a unique abstract watercolor portrait.

Facial Proportions

Understanding facial proportions is key to creating a realistic portrait—even in abstract watercolor. Here are some general guidelines to help you sketch accurate facial features:

The eyes are typically halfway between the top of the head and the chin.
The width of the nose is about the same as the distance between the eyes.
The mouth is generally one-third of the way down from the nose to the chin.

Keep in mind that these are just guidelines, and individual faces will vary. Feel free to play with proportions to create a more abstract or stylized look.

Expressions

Adding expressions to your portrait can bring it to life and give it personality. Consider these tips when incorporating expressions into your abstract watercolor portraits:

Study the reference photo for subtle cues, such as the angle of the eyebrows or the curve of the mouth.
Experiment with different expressions by adjusting the position of the eyes, eyebrows, and mouth.
Remember that less is often more—small changes in facial features can create a powerful emotional impact.

With a solid sketch in place, you're now ready to bring your abstract watercolor portrait to life using various watercolor techniques.

4. Applying Watercolor Techniques

Now that you have your sketch ready, it's time to apply watercolor techniques to create stunning abstract watercolor portraits. We'll explore wet-on-wet, wet-on-dry, and glazing techniques, each offering a unique effect to your artwork.

Wet-on-Wet

The wet-on-wet technique involves applying wet paint onto a wet surface. This method allows for smooth color blending and creates a soft, dreamy effect. Here's how to use the wet-on-wet technique:

Wet your paper with clean water, using a large brush or a spray bottle.
Apply watercolor paint onto the wet surface, allowing the colors to flow and mix naturally.
Experiment with different levels of water and paint to achieve a range of effects, from subtle washes to bold color bursts.

Wet-on-Dry

The wet-on-dry technique is the process of applying wet paint onto a dry surface. This method provides greater control over color placement and produces sharper edges. Try these steps for the wet-on-dry technique:

Ensure your paper is completely dry before applying paint.
Load your brush with watercolor paint and apply it to the dry surface, creating crisp lines and shapes.
Layer colors on top of one another to create depth and dimension in your abstract watercolor portrait.

Glazing

Glazing is a technique that involves applying thin, transparent layers of paint on top of a dry layer. This method can create depth and richness in your abstract watercolor portraits. Follow these steps to achieve the glazing effect:

Start with a completely dry base layer of paint.
Thin your watercolor paint with water to create a transparent glaze.
Apply the glaze over the dry layer, allowing the underlying color to show through.
Repeat the process with multiple layers to build up color intensity and depth.

Experimenting with these techniques will help you find the perfect approach to create captivating abstract watercolor portraits. Don't be afraid to mix and match techniques to achieve your desired effect!

5. Experimenting with Abstract Elements

Abstract elements can truly elevate your watercolor portraits, adding a sense of uniqueness and creativity. In this section, we'll explore mixing colors, incorporating textures, and using shapes and patterns to create eye-catching abstract watercolor portraits.

Mixing Colors

Color mixing is an essential skill for any artist, and it can make a world of difference in abstract watercolor portraits. To create a harmonious color palette and achieve interesting effects, consider these tips:

Experiment with colors on a separate sheet of paper before applying them to your portrait.
Combine complementary colors to create dynamic contrasts, such as blue and orange or purple and yellow.
Play with analogous colors (colors next to each other on the color wheel) for a subtle, cohesive look.
Try mixing a warm color with a cool color for an appealing balance.

Incorporating Textures

Textures can add depth and interest to your abstract watercolor portraits. There are countless ways to create texture, so don't be afraid to think outside the box! Here are a few ideas to get you started:

Use materials like salt, plastic wrap, or sponges to create unique effects.
Experiment with different brush strokes, from dry brushing to stippling, to add texture and interest.
Layer watercolor washes to create a sense of depth and complexity.
Embrace "accidents" like drips, splatters, and smudges—they can add an unexpected, beautiful touch to your portrait!

Using Shapes and Patterns

Incorporating shapes and patterns into your abstract watercolor portraits can add a sense of whimsy and energy to your artwork. Here are some ways to include shapes and patterns in your portrait:

Use geometric shapes like circles, squares, and triangles to create a sense of structure and balance.
Integrate organic shapes, such as flowing lines and blobs, to create a sense of movement and fluidity.
Add patterns like stripes, dots, or grids to create visual interest and break up large areas of color.
Consider using negative space to create a sense of depth and intrigue.

Remember, creating abstract watercolor portraits is all about experimentation and personal expression. Don't be afraid to try new techniques, mix and match ideas, and most importantly, have fun!

6. Finishing Touches and Framing

Once you've experimented with various abstract elements and techniques, it's time to add the finishing touches to your watercolor portrait. In this section, we'll cover adding details, signing your work, and choosing the perfect frame to showcase your masterpiece.

Adding Details

Details can make a significant impact on your abstract watercolor portraits, bringing the piece to life and adding depth. Consider these suggestions when adding the final touches:

Use fine brushes or a pen to add delicate details, like facial features or intricate patterns.
Consider adding highlights and shadows to emphasize the three-dimensional aspect of your portrait.
Introduce a touch of mixed media, such as ink, pastel, or colored pencil, to enhance your watercolor.
Remember that less is often more—sometimes a subtle detail can have a powerful impact!

Signing Your Work

Signing your work is an essential step in completing your abstract watercolor portrait. It not only identifies you as the artist but also adds a sense of authenticity to your piece. Here are some tips for signing your work:

Choose a consistent signature style and location on your artwork to create a recognizable "brand."
Sign with a fine brush or pen in a color that complements your portrait.
Consider adding the date or a small symbol to make your signature unique and memorable.

Choosing a Frame

Framing your abstract watercolor portrait not only protects your artwork but also enhances its visual appeal. When selecting a frame, keep these factors in mind:

Choose a frame that complements the colors and style of your portrait, without overpowering it.
Consider the size and weight of the frame—too large or heavy may detract from your artwork.
Opt for acid-free matting and UV-protective glass to preserve the vibrancy and longevity of your watercolor.
Don't forget to factor in the style of the room where the portrait will be displayed, ensuring the frame complements the overall décor.

With your abstract watercolor portrait completed, signed, and framed, you're now ready to showcase your unique creation. Remember, art is a personal journey, so don't be afraid to continue experimenting and honing your skills. Happy painting!

If you're looking to expand your artistic horizons and dive into the world of abstract portraiture, don't miss Tyler Scully's workshop, 'Intro to Abstract Portraiture & Experimental Painting Techniques.' This workshop will introduce you to new techniques and approaches, allowing you to explore your creativity and develop your unique artistic style.