I enjoy doing portraits in black and white . A good portrait includes layers of meaning and depth, it's a unique look. A color painting is fine but the character and the simplicity that comes across in a black and white is totally breath taken. When taking away the color true emotions and character can be defined. I believe that's what a black and white portrait does, reflects the true emotions of a subject.
All of my portraits are done using a dry brush method with black acrylic paint and white ink. Some will have a color background.