Portrait of Elliott (detail)

I'm thinking that I want to focus on shadows and exaggerate values by delineation.

Below is the palette so far. I've limited my color choices hoping that a rich set of values will emerge.

Palette used for John Cowan portrait

Homage to Coffee

The composition is a bit unsettling but the overall painting is decent for an afternoon.

 

Step 1: Outline and block in composition

Step 2: Add darkest darks and detail to test effect 

Step 3: Continue detail of all objects

Step 4: Add background

This procedure may not be viewed as mature, as working in a general to specific manner is quicker and much less stressful with regard to proportions. However, experimenting with the process is fun and I like how this turned out.