Finger, Before and After

OK, got it fixed today.  Before, with the finger too short and after, the finger is the proper length and thickness. 

More To Do

Took a peek at the portrait late last night as I was putting away items to be stored in the studio.  It jumps right out at you when you least expect it, that big mistake you have made and not seen all along.
 RUT ROW!!!  The last finger on the hand hanging down is too short and small.  I realized this when I looked down at my own hand, measured mentally the length of my own little finger in relationship to the knuckles and thumb.  So I pulled out the reference photo of his hand and of course there it was, but I had missed this.  Guess what I am fixing today.

Finished......I Think?

Well it looks like this portrait may be finished.  Spent the afternoon today touching up a few spots and really studying it.  I am at a point where I can't find another thing to change.  But, that does not mean it can't be improved.  All paintings can be improved, but you have to know when to stop before you overwork a painting.  If it still needs improvement, it just may be time to start another painting.  No sense beating a dead horse. 

References

Here is a shot of the studio and painting with some of the photo references I have taken.  I have also been studying some reference photos of Rafael in past years.  This helps me with mannerisms that are particular to him.  There were a couple of poses that I liked a lot, but just weren't as warm and friendly as this one.  Still, I would like to do some sketches of the other poses in the future, for my own education and practice.  

I need to stop now and fix dinner, but before I do, I am going to repaint those buttons.  They may be a tad too large........see what I mean about fussing.  I just can't leave this alone.

In the Homestretch

I think I am finally in the homestretch now.  I like the likeness and pose.  I see a few areas for more refinement.  It is my intent to have the flesh look very real.....needs more fussing around to get there Linda.  So, today I worked on the front leg.  It looked a little large to me at a distance, something that cameras definitely do......the object that is closer to you will always appear larger than the same object at a position a bit further away.  Cameras don't understand about foreshortening rules.  This minor change required me to repaint the seam down that pants leg.  I also fiddled with the left shoulder of the jacket and lightened that side of the jacket a bit more.  I am Happy with all this today.

Back To Work Today

Well, I have finally gotten back into the studio today.  Because it has been a bit and my mind has lost the momentum it had before, I spent this morning getting back into the groove and did some work on the sofa, background and the blue jeans as a means of loosening up before touching any part of the face.  Also, sat in a chair across the room from the portrait and made some notes on what comes next and areas I feel need work.  Its odd, but, all morning I kept catching myself, thinking I needed to run errands and visit mom.  Just can't shake that feeling. 

Teaching Workshop Today

I am teaching a workshop today in Warrenton VA at the Studio Frame Shop.  The class is a charcoal portrait class and we are going to do people and pets.  I will post a photo this evening I hope!

Must See Movie

After dinner last night, we watched a movie, "Tim's Vermeer".  This is a must see movie for all artists no matter what style or genre you work in or whatever your medium is.  I am always fascinated with art How To videos or History  movies and this one has both.  A real eye opener for all of us traditional painters who love Vermeer.  You will be surprised to see who produced this movie.

Portrait to Resume Shortly

I will be settling up the affairs of my mother over the next few days.....but hope to resume the portrait of Rafael shortly.  I am teaching a charcoal portrait class in Warrenton this coming Saturday and then plan to resume work on Sunday afternoon.  I am already observing the portrait and making mental notes of where to begin and what to begin with.  Thank you for your patience.

Myrtle Louise Brown

Myrtle Louise Brown passed away on April 6.  Funeral will be held at Moser Funeral Home in Warrenton Va.  on Saturday April 11 at 10:00 am.  There will be a viewing on Friday April 10 from 6 until 8:00 pm

Portrait Delay

My mother's condition has worsened and I am unable to work on the portrait at this time.  I hope to resume work on it shortly.
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