Tyler in progress 📌🔥

Hey everyone! So, as you saw, I'm currently working on a drawing of the one and only Tyler the Creator, and it's definitely a labor of love. I wanted to share a bit more about my process, especially since I'm getting a lot of questions about drawing 'Tyler in progress' and how I tackle these kinds of portraits. One of the first things people notice is the paper I'm using – Strathmore toned gray paper. If you haven't tried drawing on toned paper, you're missing out! It's a game-changer for me, especially for portraits. Instead of starting with a blank white page, you have a mid-tone to work with. This means you can add both highlights (using white pencils or pastels) and shadows (using darker pencils), making the drawing pop with a wider range of values. It really helps to create depth and makes the subject feel more alive, even when it's still a 'drawing in progress'. For this 'Tyler in progress' piece, the gray tone really helps establish the mood and allows his features to emerge beautifully. My process usually starts with a light sketch to get the basic proportions down. For Tyler, his unique facial structure and expressive eyes are key, so getting those right from the start is crucial. I use a light graphite pencil for this, making sure not to press too hard because corrections are inevitable! Once I'm happy with the general layout, I move on to blocking in the darker areas. On toned paper, this is where the magic begins. I use a range of graphite pencils, from 2B to 6B, to build up the shadows in his hair, under his jawline, and around his eyes. Then comes the fun part – adding highlights! This is where the toned paper truly shines. I use a white charcoal pencil or a white gel pen for the brightest parts, like the catchlights in his eyes or the shine on his jewelry. Layering these white highlights over the toned background creates a fantastic contrast and makes the drawing feel almost three-dimensional. As I continue with this 'drawing in progress', I'm constantly refining the values, blending with paper stumps or brushes, and stepping back frequently to check for accuracy. It's a slow but incredibly rewarding journey. If you're looking to try drawing portraits or want to elevate your 'drawing in progress' game, I highly recommend experimenting with toned paper and focusing on building up your values gradually. Don't be afraid to make mistakes – that's part of the 'in progress' journey! It's all about enjoying the process and seeing your subject slowly come to life. I'd love to hear your thoughts or any tips you have for drawing celebrities or working on toned paper!