Portrait of Elizabeth

Painting a portrait from life is something that I have done many times. The main thing that you have to keep in mind is that if your subject is lit by a cool light source, you will have warm shadows.  This is a model that I have been painting and sculpting for years.  She is truly a part of me. She is my child. 

Painting at MaryBeth's

I have been painting outdoors this week.  It has been really hot.  I painted at a friend's house and enjoyed the difficulties of trying to paint the elliptical shapes of lily pads, while little bugs crawl out of the grass and up your legs. Plein aire painting is so rewarding because it isn't something that is easy.  There are always elements of surprise. The lily pond flowers began to close up about an hour into the painting. After two hours of trying to beat the heat and elements, we agreed to paint and finish the next day.  Unfortunately, after a night of heavy storms, the lily pond did not look at all the same.  It was an adventure.

Thanks and happy painting!