Creating Stunning Portraits: The Eyecon Singer Edition

Looking for a dynamic and striking way to showcase a subject using pastel and charcoal on black paper? In this tutorial, I’ll walk you through the step-by-step process of creating a high-impact, half-face portrait from the Eyecon series – the “Singer” edition. You’ll learn about the essential materials, layering techniques, and tips for working on a dark substrate to ensure stunning results.

🎨 Materials You’ll Need to Create Your Own Eyecon

To get started, gather the following materials:

• Black Pastel Paper: I recommend Canson Mi-Tientes (160 gsm, 32 × 41 cm) for its deep black tone.

• Low-Tack Masking Tape: This is crucial for preserving untouched areas of the paper and protecting the surface before applying pastel layers.

• Pastel Colours: Select shades for building highlights and mid-tones: white, yellow ochre, and light grey.

• Pastel Pencils: For detailing, I use white (101), cream (102), black (199), cold grey (230), pink carmine (127), and light ultramarine (140).

  
  

Step 1: Sketching & Masking – Essential for Your Pastel and Charcoal Portrait

Initial Sketch and First Layers of “Singer” Eyecon

Start with a clear outline of your subject. I create my Eyecon style by taking half of the reference image and using a focal-point grid to map the composition. Once the sketch is in place, use low-tack tape on the portion of the paper you intend to leave untouched (in my case, the left-hand side). Then apply conventional masking tape and protective paper to shield surrounding areas.

When working on black paper, keeping the untouched zones pristine is vital to maintaining the high-contrast effect.

TIP: To remove stray specks of charcoal or pastel on the paper, lift the work off the desk or work surface and gently tap the back rather than blowing or wiping. This avoids marks. I also use a sticky rubber eraser to lift off any loose bits. Dab, don’t rub. You can see a few specs on the black background in the picture below. I lifted these off with a mouldable rubber by dabbing the surface. Warm the rubber to improve its adhesive properties. I sit mine on the radiator in my studio or hold it in my hand for a few minutes.

Step 2: Layering & Blending Pastels Plus Lifting Off

Layering, Blending and Consolidating Eyecon “Singer”

With the base prepared, begin layering colour. For dark paper, think of the process as “drawing out the light” rather than shading the dark. I started with soft white, layered light grey, then blended. Blending is crucial; however, once you apply pressure to pastel on black paper, it adheres quickly. So, add your various blends of colour first.

To blend, use your finger, a torchon, or a silicon blender — each gives a different effect. The trick is to apply the right pressure and build gradually.

Pro Tip: Practice on a spare piece of paper first before blending. This allows you to decide on the pastels or charcoals to blend and test the surface finish you are looking to achieve.

Step 3: Final Touches – Defining Features & Textures

Finished Artwork of “Singer” by Art-Marco

Now that the surface is built up, it’s time to refine. Add wrinkle lines, define hair strands and whiskers (if applicable), sharpen edges, and enhance contrast. In this piece, the final touches really bring the facial features forward from the dark background.

After this, you can consider applying a fixative — but lightly! Too much spray may shift pastel particles or dull the black ground.

Why the Eyecon Series Works

The Eyecon series is about bold experimentation:

• Unfamiliar substrates (i.e., black pastel paper)

• A reverse-pastel technique (drawing light into dark)

• Dramatic chiaroscuro lighting for maximum visual impact.

  
  

These original pieces are not for sale — they’re development works. But they serve as inspiration (and commission samples) for your own custom pieces. If you have a full-face photograph of a subject, I can adapt your image into an Eyecon portrait.

Exploring the Eyecon Technique Further

Understanding the Process

Creating a portrait using pastels on black paper is not just about applying colour. It’s about understanding how light interacts with dark. The contrast is what makes these portraits pop. You’ll find that the process is as rewarding as the final product.

Experimenting with Different Styles

Don’t hesitate to experiment! Try different subjects, styles, and techniques. Each piece you create will teach you something new. You might find that you enjoy certain aspects more than others. Embrace the learning journey.

Sharing Your Work

Once you’ve created your masterpiece, share it with others! Whether it’s on social media or in a local art group, feedback can be invaluable. Plus, you never know who might be inspired by your work.

Final Thoughts & Pro Tips

• Go slow with layers: Building gradually prevents overloading the dark paper and better preserves the luminous effect.

• Protect your paper surface: Correct masking and handling make a big difference when working with such high-contrast media.

• Focus on the light: On black paper, the brightest tones define the form, so choose your whites and light greys wisely.

• Keep small tools handy: Torchons and fingers for blending finer areas, silicon blenders where you need more control.

• Consider commissioning: If you like this style and want a bespoke piece, drop me your reference photo and let’s talk.

  
  

Hope you found this tutorial helpful and inspiring! If you try the technique, feel free to share your results or ask any questions below. For more information about this Welsh Icon.

Let’s create something beautiful together!