koukla carolyn

Rediscovering Myself: recent self portraits

November 02nd, 2008 | Category: Pen and Ink, Self Portraits, mixed media

graphite marker colored pencil self portrait
Self Portrait with Lipstick; graphite, marker and colored pencil in 9×12 sketchbook; Carolyn Pappas, 2008

pen and ink self portrait as a child
Self Portrat, circa 1987; Sepia PITT pen; Carolyn Pappas, 2008

Self portraits are one of the hardest things to draw for me, and I think for most people. It’s hard enough to draw a likeness and drawing yourself often brings up a lot of insecurities about appearance and expectations. I find it strange that this weekend I drew these two self portraits. In fact, I have drawn four in only two months or so. Perhaps it is because I am a free agent again and I want to establish myself as an individual. Another reason is that I am interested in improving my portrait skills and when you don’t have a model, you can always look in the mirror. I am not so sure the reason, but it is definitely a subject I will return to again.

2 Comments so far

  1. Kimberly November 3rd, 2008 1:57 am

    Carolyn, Your self portrait is stunning I love the red lipstick!! Actually, I speechless and can’t find the exact words to describe your work. I’m just so impressed You are adorable

  2. Opoku November 13th, 2008 9:53 pm

    This is good. Can easily top Picasso.

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