An opportunity to work for several hours from a seated model wearing a hat.
The support used is Colourfix card [by Art Spectrum ] in Soft Umber, this mid toned support enables you to begin establishing darker tones and work all the way through to end with highlights. Initial plotting of the pose with neutral watercolour marks.
Adding in more tonal washes. I find this free tonal underpainting a useful foundation in the early stages. Pastel work which follows can correct or alter the image at any later point. Tentative colour additions using the broad side of a pastel , vertical hatching , plus some drawing corrections.
Following a break for coffee the pose shifts very slightly , I find it always best to go with this. Re state and firm up some drawing , continue with broad sweeps of pastel following the direction of clothes on the figure. Begin to suggest the lighter tones.
Define light and shadow shapes. Look hard at the eyes. Enjoy adding in the light coming through the straw hat , which helps describe the form. Use Pastel pencil to draw the net veiling . Sort out the background re defining the hair shape and shadow. Notice the tones and colour on the hat and flowers. travel across the whole portrait making final adjustments. Strengthening and softening.
Working within a window of time prevents overworking and can help focus on what interests you most.