I usually create my portraits using charcoal and Conté pencils on paper or cardboard. For me, the beginning of a drawing is more like capturing an initial impression than trying to achieve a complete image right away. I start with quick, loose, sketch-like lines. These early marks don't need to be precise or carefully controlled; they help me discover the overall expression, structure, and visual character of the subject.
As the drawing develops, I soften some of the lines and dark areas by blending them. Then I return to the surface, adding new marks, deeper shadows, and stronger accents in certain areas. I repeat this process of drawing, blending, and drawing again several times until I gradually reach the result I'm looking for. In a way, drawing is a continuous process of building, erasing, changing, and rebuilding.
One of the most important elements in my work is the value of the line. Not all lines have the same intensity or importance. Some are bold, rough, and decisive, while others remain delicate, blurred, broken, or unfinished. The dark areas are also distributed unevenly across the surface. The contrast between strong and subtle lines, deep shadows, and lighter areas gives the drawing its rhythm, depth, and visual character.
I believe that the beauty of a drawing does not necessarily lie in the completeness of its details or its exact resemblance to the subject. Sometimes an unfinished line, an irregular shadow, or an intentionally untouched area can express more about a person's character and emotions than carefully rendered details. For me, portrait drawing is not simply about reproducing a face; it is about exploring the relationship between line, light, shadow, and the emotions that gradually emerge throughout the process.
I will be happy to answer your questions. If you need any guidance in the field of drawing and painting, count on me. I am here with you. Sincerely, Hossein Rishehri