Little Girl Portrait II: Gracie And The Balloon

Gracie
oil on canvas, 11x14
1st Session

One of the nicest compliments I can receive from a client is when they ask for a second portrait of the same subject. I really enjoyed painting Grace the first time and now, I have the pleasure of capturing her on canvas again. This second piece will be a smaller size, 11x14, and is from the same set of reference photos I took for her fist portrait. Now that I have the rough sketch taken care of I am excited to begin. Besides the balloon, there are some other fun surprises that I get to add to this composition.
This will be a Christmas gift and so I had better get busy!

Portrait Of A Little Girl: Elena Running/ 5th Session

Elena Running
oil on canvas, 16x20
5th Session

South Africa: Portrait #2

Enchanted II, oil on canvas, 16x20,
Rita Salazar Dickerson (c)2011

There is always a sense of relief when I get to this point in a painting. I've signed it and right now it feels done though I really won't be sure until I wait a couple of weeks and then go back and look at it again. The variety of textures and contrasts in this painting made the experience of working on it so enjoyable. My hope is that the interplay between this young woman's colorful, detailed costume and the rustic South African landscape will tell an entertaining story.

World War II Portrait: Hjalmer "Pete"

Hjalmer, "Pete" 16x20 oil on canvas (c)2011

In August of 1941, Pete was heading to Camp Grant, Illinois for basic training. It was World War II and he was drafted. His posture and facial expression tell a lot more than I could ever say or imagine and so I'll let the painting and photo speak for themselves. (I've included the reference photo this time because sometimes I think it is interesting to see the very beginning of my creative path.)

 At the completion of this piece, I find myself thankful on several levels. I love a good challenge and this painting did it for me. The research, the conversations with some of  those who were closest to Pete and then the final surprise presentation to the recipient, his son, were all so rewarding. My life has been enriched and it was a privilege to get to know Pete in a special way. Throughout history one of the highest forms of honoring someone is to have their portrait painted; I'm so glad Pete was honored in this way.