Olivia Jordan

Master Studies are some of my favorite pieces because they let me step into the shoes of artists I admire. I love exploring their brushstrokes, color choices, and creative decisions, almost like solving a visual puzzle. Working in acrylic, pencil, or oil, I enjoy experimenting with their techniques and seeing their style come to life under my own hand.

These studies also help me grow as an artist. Recreating a masterwork or portrait teaches careful observation, technical skill, and attention to detail. Each piece strengthens my understanding of composition, color, texture, and expression, building a foundation for creating my own work with confidence.

Study of Afghan Girl (Oil Painting)

This oil painting is a study of Steve McCurry’s Afghan Girl (1984). While recreating the piece, I focused on capturing the intensity of her gaze, the textures of her hair and clothing, and the subtle variations of skin tone. The process challenged me to observe closely, work with precision, and make careful decisions with color and brushwork. Studying this iconic portrait helped me strengthen my technical skills while inspiring me to bring more emotion and depth to my own original portraits.

Study of Three Sunflowers in a Vase (Acrylic Painting)

This acrylic painting is a study of Vincent van Gogh’s Three Sunflowers in a Vase (1888). I focused on capturing his bold brushwork, vibrant colors, and expressive textures using the properties of acrylic paint. Recreating the composition allowed me to practice layering, color blending, and dynamic mark making, while deepening my understanding of how technique can convey energy and emotion. Studying this masterpiece strengthened both my technical skills and my appreciation for the ways artists bring life to still life subjects.

Study of Girl at a Window (Charcoal Pastel)

This charcoal pastel drawing is a master study based on Rembrandt Harmenszoon van Rijn’s 1645 painting Girl at a Window, also known as Young Girl Leaning on the Windowsill. I was drawn to the directness of the girl’s gaze and the subtle emotion in her expression. I focused on how light falls across her face and forehead, and how her relaxed hand contributes to a sense of quiet presence.

While studying this work, I paid close attention to Rembrandt’s use of light and texture to create depth and realism. Knowing that he experimented with three dimensional paint in this piece, I aimed to suggest softness and volume through careful shading and smooth transitions in pastel. Recreating this portrait helped me better understand how light, gesture, and expression can bring a figure to life and create emotional connection.

Study of Jennie from Blackpink (Pencil Drawing)

This pencil drawing is a portrait study of Jennie from Blackpink, based on a photographic reference. I focused on capturing her facial features, expression, and subtle shading to convey depth and likeness. Working from reference helped me refine my observational skills, practice proportion and detail, and strengthen my technique in realistic portraiture.

Study of Chinese-Style Chrysanthemums (Watercolor)

This watercolor painting is a master study based on a traditional Chinese floral artwork. I focused on observing the structure and rhythm of the chrysanthemum flowers, using a restrained approach to color to emphasize form, line, and balance. Recreating this piece allowed me to practice control, precision, and sensitivity to subtle tonal changes while studying the elegance and discipline of traditional Chinese painting techniques. Through this process, I gained a deeper appreciation for how simplicity and intention can create expressive and harmonious compositions.