Not So Purple — Prince

2025

June

“Not So Purple —Prince” is a 12x18-inch colored pencil portrait of the legendary musician Prince, also known as "The Purple One," that showcases a fresh perspective on his iconic image.

Departing from his signature purple hues, the artwork focuses on Prince’s captivating eyes and intense gaze, inviting viewers into the depth of his charisma. Layers of white, yellow, brown, and greens bring his eyes to life, imbuing them with a luminous quality that anchors the portrait. These same tones were carefully applied to his skin, enhancing the interplay of light and shadow and reinforcing the portrait’s dramatic lighting.

Even the black pinstriped fabric of his attire is elevated with subtle layering techniques, giving it texture and depth that mimic the richness of real fabric. This thoughtful approach to color and detail transforms the piece into a powerful homage, capturing Prince’s essence with sophistication and artistry.