which of the following should you attempt when creating an animal portrait

Sara, One, you left off part of the question. Two, we don't do your homework for you.

But if I were drawing any living thing, I would try to catch the personality of the person or animal.

paper that's is undesirable for pastel work

When creating an animal portrait, there are several things you should attempt to ensure a successful and captivating result. Here are some key aspects to consider:

1. Accuracy: Aim to depict the animal with as much accuracy as possible. Observe its unique features, proportions, and physical characteristics. Pay attention to details such as fur, feathers, or scales.

2. Expression: Try to capture the animal's essence and personality in your portrait. Observe its facial expression, body language, and eye contact. Convey emotions and traits that are characteristic of that particular animal.

3. Composition: Plan your composition thoughtfully. Place the animal in an interesting and engaging way within the frame. Consider the rule of thirds or other compositional techniques to create a balanced and visually pleasing composition.

4. Lighting: Use lighting effectively to create depth and bring focus to the animal's features. Observe the natural lighting conditions in your reference photo or setting, and replicate them in your artwork. Pay attention to highlights and shadows to create a realistic portrayal.

5. Background: Choose a suitable background that enhances the animal's presence. Consider using colors, textures, or elements that complement and relate to the animal. Success in this area will help create a cohesive and visually appealing overall composition.

6. Technique: Experiment with different artistic techniques to convey textures, details, and overall aesthetics. Utilize different mediums such as pencil, charcoal, paint, or digital tools depending on your preferred style and expertise.

Remember, practice is key to improving your animal portrait skills. Study the animal, practice drawing or painting from life or using reference photos, and seek feedback from other artists or mentors to refine your technique.