The Process Behind My Blood and Charcoal Portraits

My process is built on two things: precision and respect for the medium. Whether I am using charcoal or blood, the steps remain focused on capturing the essence of the subject.

The Blood Portrait Workflow

Safety is the priority. I do not perform blood collection. Instead, I provide instructions for you to arrange a 2-5ml sample in a standard purple-cap EDTA vial from any local pathology lab. Once I receive the sample, I use anticoagulants to stabilize the medium. This prevents clotting and allows for a smooth application on 300 GSM cold-press watercolor paper. As the painting dries, the natural oxidation creates that distinct sepia or rust-red tone. Finally, I apply a UV-resistant sealant to protect the work from moisture and environmental decay.

The Charcoal Workflow

For a classic approach, I use graphite and charcoal on 180 GSM acid-free paper. I start with a light sketch to map out proportions before building up the deep blacks and subtle textures of skin and hair. These pieces are finished with a matte fixative spray to prevent smudging, then framed in a clean, professional synthetic frame.

Customization and Framing

Every piece includes framing. My blood portraits usually come in a reinforced wide-profile frame to handle the specific weight and presentation of the artwork. If you want a specific quote or a name in Kannada or English, I integrate this into the painting itself, not as an afterthought. You get the raw file scanned and the physical framed artwork shipped to your door.