Head Study 6/7

I think I made it through a valley last night, as I have turned a corner in Joseph's class. This could possibly be my most successful head yet. I am starting to realize that I have to simplify my subject into accurate shapes that are either light or dark, before I start with any transitional values/colors, and long before any detail is shown. This was a two-hour painting, which is why it seems unfinished. I would have liked to get to some of the collar, but I am happy overall.