Aditya Chari’s portrait techniques are largely centered around his influential book, Portrait Techniques Made Easy published by Grace Prakashan . A former Sir J.J. School of Art student and a concept artist for major films like
Aditya Chari’s portrait techniques provide a robust foundation for anyone looking to master the art of portraiture. By focusing on structure, understanding light, and simplifying the human form, his methods turn a complex task into an achievable, enjoyable process. Whether using his books or looking for practical tutorials, Chari’s techniques are a must-study for aspiring portrait artists.
Chari teaches that the eyeball is a sphere sitting inside a hollow socket. The eyelids must wrap around this sphere organically. He emphasizes the thickness of the eyelids and how they cast subtle shadows on the eyeball itself.
Reducing complex biological forms into basic geometric shapes. aditya chari portrait techniques pdf
Align the eyes, nose, and mouth along your structural perspective lines.
: Portraits are developed through "ascending steps," beginning with basic spacing and alignment before moving into detailed shading. Anatomical Foundation
Chari's methodology focuses on a structured, step-by-step approach to capturing likeness and form: Sakura Art Store & Gallery Sequential Construction The eyelids must wrap around this sphere organically
: Utilizing different dry mediums to create depth, often through stumping powder or graded pencils.
He identifies the darkest part of the form shadow to give the portrait weight.
Rather than simply filling in dark areas, his technique involves understanding the fall of light on a three-dimensional form. He utilizes a range of pencil grades to achieve deep, rich blacks and subtle, airy highlights. His specific technique for rendering skin texture—particularly the nuances of Indian skin tones and facial hair—sets his work apart. He avoids the trap of over-smudging, which can make a portrait look like a photograph, instead retaining the energy of pencil strokes to create a texture that feels alive and organic. rich blacks and subtle
The darkest area of the shadow side where the light completely fails to reach. This line defines the boundary between light and dark (the terminator).
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