Pastel Portrait

Pastels have long been luring me. I have had all the supplies needed to delve into them for years and, for as many years, they have seemingly been mocking me from their boxes. Well, I feel I have silenced their mocking once and for all. Not that I don't have much more to learn about this medium but, I am no longer intimidated by them! (A personal triumph-woo hoo!)

This is a portrait of my husband, wearing the cap he wore when we lived in Poland. I love the way he looks in it and the memories it evokes-the memories of being "home". But that's a tale for another time and place.

6"x 8", pastel

Drawing Study

I am getting used to the feel of charcoal and conte but remain convinced that I will never like the feel of a pencil. That may sound odd but, but a brush has a smooth and flowing feel to it and a pencil is hard and static...polar opposites to me. Charcoal and conte seem to bridge the gap a bit. It is all a great learning experience and one day I may even come to like pencils!
5" x 5 1/4", conte on newsprint

Emmie

My portrait studies continue and I am encouraged to be seeing progress! This portrait is of Emmie, a very strikingly beautiful woman that I have been wanting to paint for a long time. When the scheduled model didn't arrive, Emmie agree to sit for us. I was elated!
I feel so fortunate to have so many good artists as friends, teachers and mentors. It is so important to keep one another encouraged, motivated and challenged. I treasure each and every one of them and each and every one of YOU who share this journey with me!
9" x 12", oil on linen

Portrait Study #2

I am continuing to work on portraits. It is a challenge but I am having fun and learning a lot.
6"x6", original, oil on board SOLD