Student Work

My Techniques in Action
Check out my Student's Work

Before and After
It is really fulfilling to see what is possible after taking one of my live drawing workshops.
Theses before and after photos speak for themselves!

These drawings are by Cynthia. Can you tell which is before and which is after learning my techniques?
Here are her comments about her artistic journey:
"A few years ago, I was searching for a way to make my portraits “come alive”. I looked online and found a site entitled "Realistic Drawing Techniques" by JD Hillberry. The intro tutorials were very professional and easy to understand, so I purchased a basic tutorial, and then signed up for a weekend workshop. Since that time my experience and artwork results have improved dramatically, thanks to the ongoing patient tutelage that J.D. provides. I am only one of his many students with similar amazing success in our art thanks to his ability to foster continual improvement in both beginners and experienced artists alike."

I am incredibly proud of the progress BJ has made over the past several years. She is an accomplished artist in her own right. In fact, it seems like every time I hear from her, she has won yet another award! BJ has attended several of my live drawing workshops and has all of my drawing tutorials.
Here are some of the things BJ has told me help take her artwork to the next level:
1. Using a full range of values adds dimension and realism.
2. A really dark background will make an image pop and allows for more delicate shading in lighter areas.
3. And the most importantly...Go darker!"

Moe Before

Moe After

Brian Before

Brian After

This drawing was done by Dennis from Hawaii. As you can see it is lacking the contrast it needs to make it look more realistic.

After taking one of my three day live drawing workshops, you can see Dennis applied everything he learned which dramatically increased the contrast which ended in a much improved portrait.

This portrait was drawn by Wendi before she took my workshop. It is a fine portrait, but it is lacking in depth and realism.

After three days at my Rough Skin portrait class, you can see that Wendi incorporated my techniques for increasing contrast, texture, and value which enabled her to create a much more realistic looking drawing.

More Student Work
I truly love hearing from my students after they have taken a class or done and online video tutorial.
The progress they make is incredible, and makes me proud of the artists they have become!
If you are wanting you improve your portrait drawings, check out my Realistic Portrait Tutorial.

Here's one that was done by Holly after she took a workshop from me in Houston, Texas. Not only is the portrait great but I love the atmosphere in the background she created by using the blending techniques she learned in class.

Mary from Texas was able to created this beautiful portrait of her grandfather after taking a workshop.

This self portrait was done by Laurie from Tennessee. Great Job Laurie!

Lauren did this portrait of her father after his passing. It is a treasured keepsake for her.

Beautiful Portrait by Mathilde

These are two incredible animal drawings. My Realistic Fur Tutorial is a great resource if you are struggling with making your animal portraits look realistic!

"Daydreaming" by Gareth. What a fabulous job he did capturing the essence of this majestic animal.

Original Drawing by Kathy. Notice all of the various textures she was able to incorporate into this beautiful drawing.