We are delighted to share some wonderful work from Helen Martin, who is currently studying on our Pet Portraits Diploma Course with tutor Heather Jolliffe.
What comes through so clearly in Helen’s work, and in the notes she shares with her tutor, is a student who is genuinely engaged with the learning process. She approaches each assignment with curiosity and a willingness to experiment, and she reflects honestly on what is working and what she wants to improve. That kind of thoughtful self-awareness is one of the hallmarks of a developing artist.
Helen has been exploring a range of media and techniques as the course progresses. She has worked with coloured pencils, including a newly acquired set of Derwent Coloursoft pencils, and has also tried pastels on Pastelmat for the first time, finding she enjoyed the surface and the way it responded to her mark-making. The course is clearly opening up new materials and approaches that she might not otherwise have tried, which is exactly what it is designed to do.
Her subject choices show real variety too, from the intense, close-up study of animal eyes to a warm and characterful pastel portrait of a dog. Working closely with the details of an animal’s face, particularly the eyes, is one of the most rewarding and challenging aspects of pet portraiture, and Helen is tackling it with real commitment.
We look forward to seeing how Helen’s work continues to develop as she works through the rest of the course. If you would like to develop your own skills in capturing the character and personality of animals, you can find out more about our Pet Portraits Diploma Course here.
If you would like to receive a roundup of all of our blog posts once a week to keep you inspired in your inbox, why not sign up to our newsletter. You can access our sign up at the top of our page. If you are a London Art College student and you would like your artwork featured here, drop us a line at any time.
