Although it may not seem like much, each layer helps create depth and suppleness in the flesh and also lifts the value on the surface. This is INDIRECT painting as opposed to DIRECT painting methods which premix the colors and apply them directly to the canvas side by side as correctly as possible with the first or second pass. I like the luminous quality of the paint with the indirect method. It also works better for me with my pain level and time constraints. This portrait will have dark and vivid details in spite of the blonde hair. I am hoping it will be a good addition to my portfolio. Enjoy your painting, Diana

Every portrait is evaluated by the artist at some point, preferably this is a continual process. Being critical can be negative but having a critical eye during this process should be a positive thing. With each layer I add, my mind evaluates the depth and realism of the flesh. Taking photos is necessary so that I can share with you, but keep in mind that these photos have a sort of x-ray effect so they seem to show the under layers and often do not give a good representation of the actual skin tone I am achieving on the canvas. From my perspective, I am watching for the values to become correct, the skin tone to be alive and supple looking and then of course, I try to get the features bright and eye catching. I look it over again in case there is something I missed. Then, I call it a day. I can usually tell if I am heading for success. I don’t like it when I become impatient and try to do something in a hurry. I am satisfied with today’s work. Shalom, Diana

This portrait is all about the eyes. And so, everything about them must be very accurate and the painting must capture the spirit of the eyes or else it doesn’t bring to the viewer that point which the portrait is expressing. Today, I started by making some corrections and then I got in there and made fine tuning on some important features. It is a good lesson for me because sometimes I want to go full speed ahead. Today, I knew I needed to slow down and focus on the thing that would set this one up for success. Hope I am successful with this one and that I remember this lesson for the future. Shalom, Diana