Devon Artist Anje Yelf: Silhouette Portraits

Silhouette painting became very popular during the 18th- and 19th-century. It describes the technique of profile painting usually in black and white. Silhouettes are always of a single hue and tone, and can be either cut from card or painted. Usually the subject is painted black, but silhouettes can be created negatively (in reverse).

Silhouette Portraits

Mark and Anje

Mark and Anje

Medium: Ink
Size: Height 5" Width 7"

Dave and Mica

Dave and Mica

Medium: Ink
Size: Height 5" Width 7"

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How to:
Using H or F pencil draw faint accurate outline of silhouette. Produce a clean single line. This can be done from a life drawing or quality photograph. Fill in using a Sable size 3 to 5 with a good point. Long hair is best shown in a style that reveals the contours of the neck.