Lesson 12: Refining Realistic Eye Details for a Captivating Horse Portrait

In this lesson, we delve into one of the most expressive features of our horse portrait — the eye. The process involves refining shapes, deciding what to simplify, and knowing how much detail is enough. Here’s a step-by-step approach to detailing the eye for a compelling, realistic portrait.

Choosing the Right Brush for Precision Work

To capture the delicate features of the eye, I switch to a size one round brush. This brush size allows for precision without getting overly detailed. I avoid using an ultra-small brush, as it can result in strokes that feel too controlled and finicky.

Watch my MasterDemo to learn more.

Finding Important Details

With the eye’s basic structure established, it’s time to start adding little details like eyelashes and reflections. It’s a dynamic process — adding a bit hare, taking away a bit there. This continuous adjustment process lets me refine shapes, ensuring the eye reflects light in a natural way.

Watch my MasterDemo to learn more.

Evaluating and Finalizing Eye Details

Once the eye is nearly complete, I step back and take stock of the work I’ve done so far.  At this stage, I don’t like to rush into final details on the eye alone. I’ve completed the eye to a near-final stage, but I’ll add further details as the rest of the portrait develops. This way, the eye remains proportional to the rest of the painting and avoids becoming overly detailed too early.

One Step At A Time

Throughout this process, we continue to build our horse portrait step by step, enhancing each area bit by bit while keeping an eye on the balance across the entire canvas. I try not to get caught up in any one area, instead working in phases across the entire canvas.

Watch my MasterDemo to learn more.