Portrait Painting Certificate Course Student Spotlight: Eric Smith

Eric Smith has recently completed the Portrait Painting Certificate Course, submitting a varied and ambitious final set of work that demonstrates both technical growth and a refreshingly honest approach to learning.

For his seated figure, Eric chose an ambitious subject: Stephen Hawking in his chair. Initially explored in watercolour, Eric later revisited the piece in acrylic, allowing him greater control over structure and form. The decision to reassess and rework the subject shows a willingness to experiment and adapt, an important skill when developing confidence in portrait painting.

Eric’s self-portrait, painted in watercolour, captures a memorable moment during a visit to The Ritz Hotel in London. There is a relaxed, observational quality to the piece, and yes the tea makes a fine setting for any portrait session.

The colour sketch studies for pairs and groups explore relationships and composition, while his child study features a simple but effective layout, placing the figure low in the composition with balloons rising above. The result is light, playful, and thoughtfully arranged.

Eric’s first completed oil portrait marks an important milestone, his very first oil painting. As he openly reflects, the choice of a profile view presented challenges, particularly in capturing facial features and tonal variation. Rather than stopping there, Eric went on to complete a second oil portrait, this time working from a full-face view, giving himself the opportunity to explore eyes, nose, and mouth more fully. This second piece clearly demonstrates growing confidence with the medium.

One of the most valuable aspects of Eric’s submission is his reflection on materials. While he has worked confidently in watercolour and acrylic, Eric notes that oil painting is the medium he is most drawn to, and one he intends to continue developing with practice.

The Portrait Painting Certificate Course, taught by professional artist Heather Jolliffe, guides students through portraiture using a range of media, encouraging experimentation alongside strong foundational skills. Eric’s work reflects exactly what the course aims to achieve: steady progression, thoughtful decision-making, and growing artistic confidence.

We would like to thank Eric for his commitment throughout the course and for sharing such a considered final submission. We wish him every success in his future paintings and look forward to seeing how his portrait work continues to develop, preferably accompanied by excellent tea.

You can find full details of the course here:
https://www.londonartcollege.co.uk/art-courses/portrait-painting-certificate-course/

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