In the realm of portraiture, I present to you a piece titled "Coach." A striking portrait that carries with it a journey of discovery and a touch of nostalgia, as the artist endeavors to identify the distinguished gentleman who serves as the subject.
The gentleman in this portrait holds significance to the artist, drawing from memories of Wilberforce and Central State University. Although named "Coach," the artist acknowledges the need for a proper identification, expressing a desire for the community's help in uncovering the true identity. The search for a name continues, fueled by the artist's nostalgia for childhood moments.
"I named this portrait Coach but failed to get a proper name for the gentleman whose image I've referenced and have since not been able to find. His face is familiar to me from my childhood at Wilberforce and Central State University, and I found it while researching notable persons from the schools for subjects of my artwork. I'll continue to look, and if I do find it, this name will change. He may not even be a coach, but he does have that coach look. I wish my mother or stepfather were here; they'd tell me exactly who this distinguished gentleman is. If any of my old friends have a clue, please drop me a line."
The creation of "Coach" began with a vellum-textured digital substrate and an assortment of digital graphite brushes within Procreate. The artist's meticulous process involved porting the initial drawing to a different background, a canvas familiarized by the use of 3rd party charcoal brushes. This strategic move allowed for an emphasis on highlights, transforming the portrait even when derived from a blown-out white background in the reference.
"I started out this portrait using a vellum textured digital substrate and an assortment of digital graphite brushes in Procreate. I then ported the drawing over to a different background, one that I have gotten accustomed to using with 3rd party charcoal brushes. This allowed me to emphasize the highlights a bit more even though the reference was on a blown-out white background."
While the artist experimented with color during the creative process, the final decision favored simplicity in black and white. The intentional choice amplifies the timeless quality of the portrait, capturing the essence of the distinguished subject.
For an immersive experience into the creation of "Coach," the artist has provided a video showcasing the evolution of the drawing from inception to completion. A silent observer, the video allows the audience to witness the strokes and transformations without the distraction of music or narration.
"Attached is the video showing the drawing from start to finish. No music or narration... maybe when I get more interested in adding these sometime down the road."
As the mystery behind "Coach" unfolds, the artist invites collaboration and connection, urging old friends to contribute their insights into the identity of this distinguished figure. Stay tuned for more chapters in the ongoing journey of "Coach."
