I have been working on a large portrait which is several months from being finished. What I have come to realize is that one must be very patient. After an initial layout, work begins on small areas keeping true to the overall values and shapes of the original layout. I step back every few brush strokes and consider the whole of the piece (grand picture of values and shapes), then return making adjustments and focusing on the likeness of the individuals (details and fine measurements). If as artists we do not exercise patience, our efforts will fail us.
