Self Portrait using a mirror

Self Portrait, Oil on Paper, 15" X 11"

Lately I have been trying to take every opportunity of painting from life, especially landscapes (I have always painted still lives from life). But when speaking of portraiture, you need someone else who is equally enthusiastic as you are (which, in my limited experience, is quite difficult). So I am planning to do a few more of these self portraits using a mirror in different lighting situations and orientations. That way I hope to ensure I will be in good nick when someone finally agrees to pose and wont disappoint them :). The likeness here is quite close, but not perfect.
Thank you for stopping by. All comments and critiques are welcome :)  

Charcoal Sketches

The Gaze, Charcoal on Paper, 15" X 11"

Happy Girl, Charcoal on Paper, 15" X 11"

Tried out some new, advanced techniques in charcoal here that are bolder and riskier to what I am used to. (These techniques are new to me although they are well established for ages). No doubt I need more practice until I can make my drawings look convincing. :)
All comments and critiques are most welcome.

Grey Cap

Grey Cap, Charcoal on Paper, 15" X 11" 

I have not done charcoal for a while now. Did this one today morning from a small photo I had taken with my phone. I think the best part of charcoal is that one need not worry about colour and can concentrate on getting the values perfectly right. I am never too confident with my colour and prefer to atleast stay loyal to the values. Its precisely for this that charcoal is a relief for me after a series of failed paintings ;)

Balu

Balu, Charcoal on Paper, 15" X 11" 

Meet Balu, a construction worker from Hyderabad. He does one of the most difficult jobs around, especially considering the Indian climate. The heavily tanned skin is evidence enough that he has to brave the harsh sun all day long. I find great spirit and depth of character in such faces. 

All comments and critiques are most welcome.