Happy B Portraits
Happy B Portraits was a portrait series created during the pandemic as a response to a moment marked by solitude and uncertainty. I named the project #happyBportraits, with the intention of offering connection and comfort through art.
The series consisted of 30 portraits, created from photos shared by my followers and broader community. Each portrait was hand‑drawn and painted in my style, and offered free of charge as a way to lift spirits and bring a smile to people's faces. The portraits were created for a wide range of occasions, from birthday surprises to messages of encouragement for loved ones recovering from illness. Through this project, I experienced firsthand how art can quietly connect people, even when we are apart.
Happy B Portraits: Watercolor Painting Process Video. About an hour of the making of this little portrait condensed into 10 minutes.
Step 1: Sketching
Each portrait began as a digital sketch created in Procreate, drawn from the photo reference shared with me. I focused first on capturing expression and posture, allowing the drawing to feel natural and true to the person portrayed while keeping my style.
Step 2: Adding color
Once the sketch was ready, I printed it onto watercolor paper and began building up color using watercolor paint. For portraits that included clothing or fabric with intricate patterns, I used masking liquid to preserve clean shapes and details before painting. I worked in layers, allowing the watercolor to create softness, texture, and depth as each portrait developed.
Step 3: Adding warmth with Copic markers
To bring warmth and life to the faces, I added subtle skin tones and a light blush using Copic alcohol markers. This step helped soften features and add more character to each portrait.
Step 4: Final details
I completed each portrait by adding linework and small details with colored pencils, bringing definition and clarity to the final piece. The process was slow and intentional, giving me time to connect with each portrait as it took shape.
Supplies I used:
Escoda Reserva watercolor brush, round 4
Jane Davenport watercolor sets, Neutrals and Brights
Copic Sketch markers, E00, R00, and R20
Canson XL watercolor paper
This project reaffirmed why I continue to create. Happy B Portraits brought together process, community, and intention in a way that felt honest and grounding. It reminded me that art can bring comfort and connection, while allowing me to do what I love most: making art that brings happiness to others.
Stay safe. Stay kind.
B
