Paul Clay — Portrait Artist
I’m Paul, a portrait artist drawn to the character, expression and imperfections that make every face unique.
I work primarily in watercolour, pencil and airbrush, moving between loose, expressive marks and more considered detail. I love exploring the different qualities of each medium, from the fluid unpredictability of watercolour to the precision of pencil and the soft, layered effects of airbrushing.
Faces have always fascinated me, and this site is a collection of my portraits, experiments and ongoing explorations of people, faces and the materials I use to bring them to life.
Welcome
"Watercolour painting and pencil drawing are both wonderfully expressive art forms."
Watercolours offer a beautiful, fluid medium that allows for soft, delicate washes and vibrant, transparent colours. The way the paint interacts with water creates stunning blends, giving life to portraits.
On the other hand, drawing with pencil brings its own charm. It’s a versatile tool perfect for capturing intricate details, shading, and texture. With just the pressure of your hand, you can create everything from light, wispy lines to bold, deep tones. There’s something soothing and meditative about sketching, as it offers complete control and lets you bring your ideas to life with simple yet impactful strokes.
Both forms of art provide endless opportunities for self-expression and creativity. Whether it’s the delicate play of watercolour or the precision of pencil, each medium invites you to slow down, enjoy the process, and explore the beauty of art.
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Original Paintings
It’s always a privilege to create portraits for people, especially when they are linked to the club you support! Owners of my paintings include Nathan Collins, Harry Souttar, Tyrese Campbell, Sam Vokes, Tom Edwards, Jordan Cousins, Mehdi Léris, Ryan Mmaee and Nathan Jones.
