Monochrome Portrait
Using reference image was received from the client’s Instagram account, I was tasked with illustrating a portrait in a monochromatic aesthetic. The tool used for this project is Adobe Illustrator.
Mock-up for client to visualise the illustration as a poster.
Challenge
The challenge was to capture the portrait in a monochromatic style where the illustration was both realistic and stylised. The monochromatic style will require more attention when contrasting colours to make each element stand out.
Reference Image. Image available at @_sjcr.
Sketch of Reference Image
An initial sketch was done to get an understanding of all the facial elements in the reference image.
Illustration Development
Utilising the skills I learnt in the My Self Portrait project, I broke down the process sections (outlines, shadows, base colours and highlights). With that, I was able to best align the illustration to the reference image. While developing the illustration, I requested feedback from the client and implemented it into the design. The design was developed in grey tones to best create the contrasts between the different elements. The shadows and light were shaped in a stylised method to create an abstract aesthetic.
Result
Final Illustration
The final illustration is an interpretation of the reference image which conveys the message of the individual's beauty. The colour blue was chosen to best represent the elegant and stylish aesthetic of the reference image and flowers were included as an emphasise the message of beauty. The success of the illustration was measured by the client’s positive response when receiving the final illustration.
Takeaways
This project allowed me to not only develop my illustrative skills but also required me to push the limits of a detailed monochrome portrait and the effective utilisation of contrasting shades.