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| Kristen, 9" x 12" oil on board |
If you find yourself slavishly copying a photo, and it is a perfect picture as is, than just stop there and frame it. The beauty of being an artist is to make an emotional connection between artist and viewer. Using a reference picture should only be the jumping off spot to making a connection. How can you do that when capturing a portrait that should look like the person or pet for your painting, you ask?
I really don't have a simple answer, but for me I look for something in the reference photos... a look, a gesture, an action. For instance, here is a portrait of a young girl, my daughter, Kristen, entering adulthood. She has such a beautiful soul, our little Kristen. The story I see behind this painting is that she's on her way out the door and I think the angle shows motion and the white is the door jamb...a quick look back to me....bye mom, I love you...(or was it bye, mom... I took money out of your wallet)....and she's gone. At the same time, it symbolizes her metamorphosis from young girl/child to young woman.
I truly love paintings that deliver a meaning, a story, an emotion. Do you have any favorites?
If you would like join us for Sneak Peek Friday, just visit Jennifer at "In the Studio" and give it a try.
10 comments:
wow diana, you did it. captured an emotion. i feel the same way as you do about copying a photo. just use it as a reference and make that connection.
right now my fav is the one you just sent to me! it's propped up on my dresser until it can get framed and hung properly. hubby and i both have an emotional connection it it and it's better than the photo because it sets a mood and feeling that the photo didn't.
this is all i hope to obtain from being an artist and it's truly a dream to have an original from such a fantastic painter. keep it up! xo
What a beautiful piece! Her eyes are amazing. I love the angle you used. What a wonderful memory piece! So happy you join us for 'sneak peek friday'. :)
She is looking beautiful and I like the eyes too.
oh she's beautiful...there's something that i just love about your work! your colors and all just really are awesome! love it.
Wow, the eye contact in that painting completely captured me. I agree, if you can capture the perfect photo, you should just stop there and frame it - that's why I'm a photographer. :) I love that you can take and image and make it better through your painting. You have an amazing talent!
Your daughter looks so much like you and you captured her and her essence so beautifully.
You inspire me to try new angles and not be so rigid in my thinking!
I agree. I was going to say she looks like you, but it's been said. Wonderful piece. Your daughter will treasure it forever!
girlfriend, you are so right! The piece is BREATHtaking...I find that when I look at some photos or somEthing I might be working on and I feel like I could cry (IN A GOOD WAY)...STOP!
Hi Diana..just popping in to say hello. I've been under-the-weather for the past few days (sinus infection)..but today, definitely on the mend. Sure regretted missing Friday Sneak Peek. Always love coming here to your site. You always have something delightful to share. LOVE this post! Especially enjoyed the portrait of your sweet daughter. You surely captured the purest qualities of her through those gorgeous eyes. They speak volumes! Great work! Hugs of Improving Health & Georgia Sunshine, Terri
love your thoughts on painting...and how special to be able to capture your daughter's coming of age in such a personal way. what wonderful work you do!!! :) jan
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