We have thus far created a three dimensional look by using the light and structure. We have achieved our likeness and are satisfied with the results. Even so, the painting so far is monochromatic and basic. The image is accurate but not realistic. in teaching myself how to paint a portrait, I came to understand that flesh and bones also need to be covered with skin. My painted figures did not take that step toward realism until I had gained this knowledge. In the first image i have randomly applied a mixture of titanium white, flake white and an equal amount of Grumbacher Gel. Then i use a soft old brush to work it into the weave of the canvas until the paint is evenly applied. if i am able to load the next photo, it will show how i have used a soft fan brush to smooth out the paint layer, removing all but a trace and then buffing with the brush until the surface has a sheen on it. This is the buffing process we will use between every layer when painting the flesh parts of the portraits. these two images are in reverse order but at least they are both here.