In this lecture, we will explore the value-based approach to painting portraits. Students will learn to separate lights from darks and simplify the shadow structure to create a solid foundation for expressive strokes. The lecture will cover:

- Introduction to the value-based approach

- Brief overview of the form-based approach

- Importance of simplifying shadow shapes

- Analyzing reference photos for major value shapes

- Demonstration of expressive strokes placed over top of simple values

In this lecture, students will delve into the construction/form-based approach to painting portraits. By understanding and capturing the underlying structure of the face, students will develop the proper foundation to create expressive brushwork. The lecture will cover the following key points:

- Introduction to the construction/form-based approach

- Importance of understanding facial structure

- Examples of simplified facial structure essential of accurate representation

- Applying lighting to emphasize form and depth in their portraits

- Combining this approach with expressive brushwork

In this lecture, students will dive into understanding the major anatomical structures of the face and how to simplify them for practical use in portraits. By exploring the bones and muscles of the face, students will gain valuable insights into capturing realistic and expressive portraits. The lecture will cover the following key points:

- Students will learn the major anatomical structures of the face and their practical application in portraits through step-by-step demonstrations

- In the demonstrations, students will be guided to paint a simplified skull and accurately layer the discussed major muscle groups

- Techniques will be taught to simplify facial anatomy into a practical structure for portrait painting, focusing on key elements for expression and form

In this lecture, students will learn the essential techniques for discerning, painting, and manipulating the expressions of the face in portrait painting. Jon will delve into the anatomical and structural aspects of the face that contribute to each individual's expression. Key points covered in the lecture:

- Explore the six major expressions of the human face, understanding how each expression is formed through the interplay of muscles, bones, and facial features

- To aid in understanding, students will learn to simplify expressions into a simple and practical cartoon version of each expression

- Jon will thoroughly discuss the key factors that determine each expression, drawing examples from the anatomical model created in the previous lecture

In this lecture, students will focus on the key techniques involved in capturing the likeness or "big impression" of an individual's portrait while allowing for expressive manipulation. Jon will guide students in maintaining the resemblance to the subject while infusing their own artistic interpretation. Key points covered in the lecture:

- Understanding the significance of capturing the essential characteristics that make a portrait recognizable as the subject, while still allowing room for creative expression

- Jon will discuss techniques for manipulating the portrait in an expressive manner without compromising the likeness. Students will learn to push the boundaries of exaggeration and distortion while keeping the essence of the subject intact

- Keeping the big impression in mind: Students will be encouraged to maintain the overall impression or essence of the subject throughout the painting process

In this lecture, students will explore the art of painting expressively with color and will master the creation of captivating skin tones in their portraits. The focus will be on understanding the relativity of color and maintaining proper color relationships. Key points covered in the lecture:

- The relativity of color: How color perception can be influenced by surrounding colors

- The proper methods to preserve accurate color relationships in their paintings

- Jon will provide multiple demonstrations showcasing different skin tones and challenging color families

- Embracing the power of color: Color is a powerful tool in an artist's arsenal. Students will be encouraged to use color boldly and effectively to enhance the impact of their portrait paintings and evoke emotions in the viewer

In this lecture, students will learn to create bold and expressive brushwork in their portrait paintings. Key techniques for achieving impactful brushstrokes will be explored, enabling students to capture proportion, value, edge, and color in a single stroke. Emphasis will also be placed on establishing a solid foundation through the underpainting process to support expressive brushwork. Key points covered in the lecture:

- Making bold and expressive brushstrokes: Students will learn the essential principles and techniques for creating dynamic and expressive brushwork

- Students will learn the proper method of establishing the underpainting, focusing on structural accuracy and simplification to lay the groundwork for their subsequent brushwork

In Lecture 8, students will delve into the art of controlling textures in portrait painting. This lesson focuses on understanding and managing various textures commonly encountered when depicting portraits, such as subsurface scattering, wet or moist skin, stubble, tattoos, and more. By gaining a comprehensive grasp of these textures, students will expand their range of expression and enhance the realism of their artwork. Let's explore the key details covered in this lecture:

- Jon will unpack and analyze the intricacies of various portrait textures. By unraveling the secrets behind these textures, students will be able to create more lifelike and engaging portraits.

- By mastering portrait textures, students will unlock a wider range of expressive possibilities, enabling them to infuse their artwork with depth, character, and emotion.

In our final lesson, students will learn to create an expressive and compelling portrait while injecting it with imaginary elements. The key topics covered in this lesson are:

- Students will learn to effectively combine disparate references, textures, and various inspirations to create a fresh and exciting portrait

- Jon will provide a demo showcasing imaginative elements. Throughout the demo he will effectively manipulate and combine elements to create an imaginative and expressive portrait