Embrace Incomplete: Create an Unfinished Portrait with Gunhild Hope

In this mini-lesson (7 mins), Norwegian artist Gunhild Hope offers something a little different: not a step-by-step drawing demo, but a thoughtful, inspiring invitation to simplify your process—and leave things unfinished on purpose.

Rather than fully rendering her portrait, Gunhild walks you through how she approaches the reference photo with intention and restraint. She shares how she identifies the focal point (the direct gaze, the rhythm of the composition), decides what to emphasize (a strong line here, a suggestion of shadow there), and lets go of unnecessary details (goodbye, jacket folds and hair strands).

You’ll learn how not finishing a portrait can actually make it more compelling by guiding the viewer’s eye, creating a sense of movement, and leaving space for interpretation.

Gunhild also discusses her choice of materials—three limited crayons in the classical red, black, and white palette—and how using them on toned paper helps her capture a modern subject with timeless warmth.

If you’ve been craving a change of pace, or just a moment of creative clarity, this short lesson is the perfect reset. Come away with a fresh perspective, a lighter touch, and a deeper understanding of how less can truly be more.

Ready to embrace the incomplete? Let's get started!