Portraiture: Commissioned and Candid Sketches
I translate human expressions onto paper and canvas, balancing formal academic skill with the raw honesty of observational sketching. Whether it is a commissioned family portrait or a live moment captured in transit, my work focuses on truth rather than physical perfection.
A collection of finished portrait sketches in various mediums, including pencil, charcoal, and pastel. These pieces show my ability to create detailed and expressive likenesses.
The initial painting stage of a commissioned family portrait in acrylic on canvas. This piece includes five family members and their pet, composed from a photograph.
The line work for the same family portrait, showing the foundational drawing before color is applied. A strong drawing is the basis of every good painting.
A commissioned portrait painting of a couple, measuring 48 by 36 inches, in the initial drawing phase on canvas. I work on large-scale canvases for clients seeking a significant piece of art.
The line drawing for a commissioned portrait, based on a reference photograph shown in the corner. This is the first step in translating a photo into a painted work.
A sketch for a commissioned portrait of a couple, capturing a moment of shared joy. My goal is to convey the relationship between the subjects, not just their physical appearance.
A candid portrait sketch of a man wearing a turban, drawn live on a train. This is an example of a quick character study, done in minutes to capture a compelling face.
About Portraiture: Commissioned & Candid
When I work on commissioned portraits, I begin with a foundational line drawing on canvas, which allows me to map out the structure and character of each subject before introducing acrylic color. This preparation ensures the final piece remains a true reflection of the individual rather than a mere visual copy.
My approach to portraiture is divided between the immediate, observational nature of live sketching and the deliberate process of commissioned painting.
Commissioned Portraits
For clients requesting permanent works, I work primarily in acrylic on canvas. The process begins with a detailed line drawing. A strong drawing is the basis of every good painting, as it captures the skeletal structure of the face and the specific energy of the subject. I prioritize realistic representations over caricature, ensuring the personality of the individual is preserved. I use archival quality materials, ensuring that family portraits and individual commissions remain vibrant for generations.
Live Sketching
In live settings, my role changes to that of a visual reporter. Whether at a corporate event or a quiet family gathering, I use graphite and charcoal to capture unposed gestures. I bring my own easel, drawing board, and lighting, allowing me to work in any environment, from well-lit hotel ballrooms to dimly lit venues. Each sketch is finished with a fixative spray to prevent smudging and handed over in a clear protective sleeve.
My Perspective
My formal training at the Sir J.J. School of Art provided me with the technical foundation to understand light, shadow, and anatomy. However, my practice is driven by the desire to document the human condition. Whether I am sketching commuters on a Mumbai local train or detailing a couple's joy in a commissioned painting, I am searching for the internal struggle and the quiet truth that exists in every moment. My work is not about creating an idealized image, but rather documenting the reality of the people I draw.
Pratap Badtya
I am Pratap. My art is rooted in the lessons of the J.J. School of Art, but it truly comes alive when I observe the quiet struggles and joys of everyday people. I do not just draw faces; I look for the story behind the expression, whether I am standing on a platform in Mumbai or working in my studio.
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