Watercolour Portraits
The Set Up
There is something about a black and white photo set against colour that always feels like magic! These portraits have become one of my absolute favourites at Smudge, so much so that we offer them as a Party Theme as well. My own children made theirs years ago and they still hang in our kitchen; giving me a smile every time I walk past.
Print monochrome photos of each artist and use Canva’s background remover for clean edges. Thick paper works best as a base. Add painter’s tape borders if you want that crisp framed look when the tape peels away. Set out a full palette of watercolours so the backgrounds can be as bold, soft, or unexpected as the artist chooses.
The Making
I love starting with the background. Paint first, let it dry, and then place the portrait on top. The clash between monochrome and colour is striking. It makes artists stop and think about placement: high or low, centred or off to the side. That decision becomes part of the meaning.
You can just as easily glue the portrait first and paint around it. Both approaches are beautiful. Sometimes prompts help spark ideas. What does your imagination look like? What colours feel like you today? Where is a place that feels special to you?
I will never forget when a four year old told me, “my imagination looks like sparkles falling in a rainbow.” It was the perfect reminder of why these portraits matter and that they catch a little piece of a person at that moment in time!
Variations
Turn them into mixed media by adding sequins, felt, or fabric scraps. Ask “what else belongs in this portrait with you?” and let artists collage those things in (maybe a favourite toy, a pet, a flower, a symbol?). Each extra layer deepens the story.
Materials
Printed black and white portraits
Thick paper or cardstock
Watercolour paints and palettes
Brushes, water jars, cloths
Painter’s tape (optional, for borders)
Glue sticks or PVA
Collage extras: sequins, felt, fabric scraps
