Faces are fascinating.
Have you noticed that? Starting with our mirror image in the morning,
and all through the day, we see people. As an artist, I see faces
on a different level. In a child I observe the soft, smooth skin,
wide innocent eyes, and small, dainty features. I mentally examine
colors, lighting and how I would apply what I see onto canvas or paper
using oil, watercolor, gouache or pastel.
I move on to character studies. What
makes a particular face unique from all others on this planet? Is
it skin tones? Is it facial expression? I study reflected light,
hair color and style, and manner of dress, posture, and attitude.
"Children are best captured in a
moment of being natural."
Then (with the models' permission), I paint
portraits. Children are best captured in a moment of being natural.
Since they are so animated, a camera is a valuable tool to define that
instant when the child is relaxed and not "posing" for me. There
is, of course, no substitute for, or short cuts to, the careful observation
and numerous sketches of the subject. As I spend time and get to
know the person(s), we both begin to |
|
|
relax and enjoy the experience. Children
like to play "dress-up". Some of the most interesting portraits I
have done are of those magical times.
Adults, also, intrigue me. They are
more likely to tolerate the long sessions it takes to paint their portrait.
I have learned in my thirty years of painting, that getting the idea down
on paper or canvas quickly, puts everyone at ease. A particular tilt
of the head, or twinkle in the eye, a direct gaze, a quirky smile can be
brought out as the person gets used to sitting for me and relaxes in congenial
conversation. Thus the personality comes through in the finished
piece.
"What keeps me coming back to portraits
is the pure joy of painting people."
I love to see the way light makes skin glow. I am enthralled by
the essence of reflected light on cheek and jaw; the stark or soft
shadows created by sunlight or lamplight. What keeps me coming back
to portraits is the pure joy of painting people. The ability to create
not only a likeness, but to capture the true depth of the person is a wonderful
gift for which I am eternally grateful.
|
