Bohemian

Salutations. I stumbled upon your images after seeing them in the critiqueable section. Before I mention my observations, I have to admit my biases. Despite knowing that this is a university assignment, I am not going to regard that in my comments. I have no idea of time constraints, or requirements for completing the assignment, which may have affected how and why these images are the way they are.

Out of the three images for the series so far, this one sticks out to me the most. I prefer the shading on this one. Additionally, the black lines don't define the face, or act as an outline as much as in the other two. They seem more organic and part of the image as an artistic element. Overall, the technique is solid.

What concerns me is the conceptual aspects. I understand that the point is for the audience to see these images. Supposedly, their reaction would change based on each subculture. Their opinion on who that person is and their assumptions on the figure's personality would also change, despite the fact that all three figures are the same person.

Initially, it's difficult to tell that these are the same person, even though all three portraits have a caucasian female with blue eyes and freckles. The concept would stick more if it were more obvious that all three portraits were the same person. Granted, I was able to tell and got the point. But it's also too easy for the audience to walk away, not getting the point, because they didn't even realize that all three were the same person. Fellow artists would take the time to examine the portraits extensively. A general audience is less likely to do so.

Potential solutions vary, and honestly, I can't think of specific ways to solve the issue. Consider looking into different ways to present the work, in order to convey the concept. It's difficult to tell on DA, but it could be worth looking into and you might not have to change anything directly in the portrait. Secondly, opting for a more realistic or more cartoonish style would make it easier for the audience the figure as the same. Thirdly, doing all portraits with the same angle for the face would also streamline the effect. These are some possibilities. Perhaps you can think of something better for your specific situation.

If this project were continued in the future, it would be interesting to see more examples of sub cultures. These are solid examples, so far. However, it'd be nice to see less fashionable sub-cultures as well, such as drag kings, skinheads, neo-nazis, etc. Having a mix between fashionable ones, and ones that are a bit harder to accept, would provoke a larger variety of reactions and expectations.