Little Girl Portrait: "Grace" Completed

Grace
oil on canvas, 16x20
7th and 8th Session

Painting Grace's portrait had been a delight on many levels. First, her name brings to mind two  definitions of the word grace (elegance or beauty of form, undeserved favor or goodwill). The name is befitting of her. And then I think of how fortunate I am to be able to paint portraits such as Grace's as well as all of the interesting work that comes my way as a commissioned artist. This painting career that I have is definitely undeserved. God has been gracious. I am truly blessed.

The pink dress was ideal for little Grace. She wears it well. The color enhances her skin as well as her light hair. The background also emphasizes her beauty; the framing of her smiling face with the greenery and then the colorful flowers that dance playfully behind her. It was all so much fun to paint!

Little Girl Portrait: The Background

Grace
oil on canvas, 16x20
6th Session

I enjoyed painting in this vivid green portion of the background which immediately enhanced her light blond hair and little pink bow.

Little Girl Portrait: Arms, Hands and A Little Blue Whale

Grace
oil on canvas, 16x20
5th Session

9/11 Artifact Unveiling

Today I had the privilege of attending the unveiling of the 9/11 Artifact memorial at NORAD. I was able to take photos and I think they will help tell the story. I have only been to NORAD once before and it was years ago for my son's 4th grade field trip. This time it was even more exciting being there knowing that I had a part in this special day. I came early and left late, just trying to soak it all in.

"We Will Not Waver"
"We Will Not Tire"

"We Will Not Falter"
"We Will Not Fail"

It's five sided base forms the shape of the Pentagon.

After NORAD I drove to the campus of UCCS and photographed the 2nd memorial artifact that I had the opportunity to be a part of. It was also unveiled today. I like the fact that this memorial is very accessible to the public.

This monument points toward NORAD and the NORAD artifact points toward New York.

Little Girl Portrait: Dressed In Pink

Here is a little painting progression of Gracie's pink dress. 

Grace
Progression #1

Grace
Progression #2

Grace
oil on canvas, 16x20
4th Session

9/11 Artifact #2

Close-up of 9/11 Artifact #2

As we take time out of our busy lives to pause, remember and honor those killed and injured ten years ago today, I thought I would take a break from the painting that I am currently working on and share with you photos of the second 9/11 artifact that I had the honor and privilege to be involved with. My challenge, once again, was to paint the surface as it looked when it was pulled from the rubble at the World Trade Center. This steel plate will be displayed on the campus of UCCS  here in Colorado Springs. This smaller piece will be pointing toward NORAD where the other artifact I painted will be displayed.

Let us never forget.

Little Girl Portrait: Mouth and Hair

Grace
oil on canvas, 16x20
3rd Session

Little Girl Portrait: Eyes and Nose

Grace
oil on canvas, 16x20
2nd Session