A captivating artistic challenge: two faces in one

Poupi Von Craft worked closely with our first and third year students to present them with a captivating artistic challenge: to create a portrait where two faces merge into one. This challenge not only stimulated their creativity, but also pushed the students to explore new artistic and technical avenues.

Academic methods… and technical mastery!

The first day of the masterclass was dedicated to the introduction of essential academic techniques such as ‘mise au carreau’, a process for structuring and proportioning a drawing correctly. She also stressed the importance of studying colour palettes, guiding students in their choice of colours to bring their work to life. These solid foundations are crucial for any aspiring artist, providing a foundation on which to build freer, more personal interpretations.

In a second phase, the students were able to integrate more advanced elements of creativity. The emphasis was on the harmonious fusion of the two portraits, requiring greater technical mastery and artistic sensitivity.

Enthusiasm and creativity

The enthusiasm of the students was palpable throughout the master class. Everyone was particularly receptive to Poupi Von Craft’s advice, and the results exceeded all expectations. The works they produced revealed not only a high level of technical skill, but also boundless creativity, proving the positive impact of this experience on their artistic careers.

The visit of Poupi Von Craft was a real enrichment for our students. The opportunity to work with an artist of her calibre not only strengthened their technical skills, but also enabled them to develop their own artistic style and vision. This kind of encounter is essential in shaping the talent of tomorrow and propelling our students to new creative heights.

Read the inspiring interview with Poupi Von Craft

We asked her about her career and her impressions of working with our students!

Can you tell us about your artistic background and how you came to specialise in portrait painting?

I graduated with a bachelor’s degree in science and technology of design and applied arts. At the age of 17, I entered the Ecole des Beaux-Arts, where I spent two years before pursuing a degree in plastic arts. I then went on to do a Masters 2 with first class honours in research into contemporary art practice. After teaching at secondary school for two years, I now devote myself entirely to my art. Oil painting has always been my favourite medium, and I’m fascinated by the ability to feel the soul through portraiture.

Your painting style is unique. What are the main influences that have shaped your artistic approach?

My main influences come from the universe, the microcosm and the macrocosm. I have a particular attraction to the paintings of Berthe Morisot, a woman Impressionist painter.

How do you choose the subjects for your portraits, and what inspires you in your models?

I’m inspired by a variety of models. Everyone inspires me, whether it’s passers-by in the street, people I know or works of art I’ve seen in museums. My selection process is instinctive and emotional, based on the energy and authenticity I sense in people.

Can you describe the concept and main objectives of the workshop you ran for our students?

The concept of the workshop was to pass on the techniques I use to paint a portrait. I chose an academic approach because, in my opinion, it’s essential to master the codes before you can deconstruct them.

What specific portrait painting techniques did you choose to highlight during the workshop, and why?

I emphasised academic techniques such as tiling and the study of colour palettes. These techniques help to structure the work and provide a solid foundation for the students, before they embark on more free and personal interpretations.

What was your impression of the students’ commitment and creativity during the workshop?

Running workshops is an exhilarating experience. The students gave me a pure, authentic energy about art. They were committed and creative, reminiscent of Maya Angelou’s quote ‘You can’t use up creativity. The more you use, the more you have.’

What practical advice did you give the students to continue developing their portrait painting skills after the workshop?

My first piece of advice is to keep practising. The key is to practise constantly, tame their palette and trust each other. Perseverance is essential if you want to develop your skills.

You also design clothes for art and fashion lovers, can you tell us a bit more about your brand?

My clothing brand is an extension of my artistic values. It aims to make art accessible to the general public, by taking it out of traditional institutions. This takes the form of street art frescoes as well as clothing designs, allowing art to live in the public space.