Monthly Archives: August 2020
Modify, correct
The photos almost see through the paint to the under layer. It does not look this transparent in person. I will do another layer and modify the flesh. Also I want to darken the hair a little, especially the lower areas not in light.
one thing I am particular about in my portraits is the depth and suppleness of the flesh. I remember when I painted Plimoth Wife, the old ladies skin tones took a lot of work. It will be the same here and the camera emphasizes it. I know that the layering helps but it is also a matter of coming up with the right paint mixture. Everything in the light looks good. I just cannot allow the shadows to seem so rough. Often, when looking at museum portraits, I see this unfinished shadow area. To the untrained eye, it may all work, but I expect it to be better. I hope I can achieve what I am looking for. And we know the saying, ‘I’ll know it when I see it.’ Diana
Getting close
don’t have much time to post but I wanted to get you all up to date on this work . I am almost finished. I may do another layer of flesh and also glaze in some rich cheek pinks, a little more on the hair, just some darks, I think. Till then, stay well.
Today’s reality
When this painting sits downstairs on my fireplace, it glows. A portrait that looks so simple, is simply NOT. I began with the desire to capture, of course, the likeness. But also I wanted the expression and the strong moody light. I felt that this is what would captivate the viewer. I was visiting my daughters recently so missed some posts. You can see that I am working on hair and eyes. I am still not satisfied with the shadows in the face. This area has not jumped over that depth threshold. I will keep working.
During the summer of 2019, most of us were unaware of the looming tragedy that was hanging like a storm cloud above us. Since then, our world has changed. Just look at the little face masked toddlers with their parents. Do any of us think about the drastic changes in their routines. Or even how many more are hungry or frightened. I am convinced that our ‘leaders’ have made unwise decisions. Even now I read more are still dying from flu than the virus and no one quarantines for that. Since when have we ever quarantined the healthy and caused devastation in whole societies. Of course this is a pandemic threat but I believe we are not applying ancient practical wisdom in this dire situation. Don’t allow the media to dictate our responses. Let’s return to common sense. Care for our families, protect others, avoid violence or places where violence is predictable. Remain out of public places if you believe you are exposed. Love and continue to do art if possible. Pray. Keep your eyes open and your mind alert. May you be blessed. Diana
Diana Williams Portraits 