Portraits
As an academically trained painter, I employ the methods and materials of the 19th century and of the Old Masters in my portraiture as taught to me through a direct master/pupil lineage dating back to the beginnings of the French Academy.
Whether painting commissioned work at my north light studio in Marshall NC or at the clients chosen location, it is always my utmost goal to crate a timeless museum quality painting.
A typical three quarter length painted portrait from life would require approximately 6-10 three -hour sittings. Working from life is a method more often chosen by adults who enjoy participating in the process. They receive not only a portrait, but a memorable experience as well.
However, the use of photography as a primary reference has become a necessity with many adults and most children in our busy world today. Along with careful staging of the subject, photography may provide excellent primary information for the creation of a portrait. Within a days time, a large selection of images can be created and reviewed as to the portrait’s direction. The client and I will look over the material and I will discuss with the client what will best work as a beautiful portrait, differentiating between what leads to a fine work of art as opposed to what is just a good candid photograph. Generally if time permits, I would ask the client to sit for a short time so I may take painted notes directly from nature in order to create a small color study of the portrait to aid in the final painting process.
