Jeff, you wrote: Why would we want to talk about yada, yada, yada ..., while we're doing what you said we were doing?

Because we're on the topic of high quality art forums, and what they can do for our development.

That's not too tangential.

Cynthia,

I have to jump in and echo the prior posts. Participating in the Portrait Artist Forum has enabled me to grow in so many, and often unexpected ways.

Jeff writes I couldn't agree with you more. We are all 'amateurs', and here are inspired by our heroes, and encouraged by our own community. My plan is simply to become a better painter. I am far from my goals as well. But how gratifying! I have made wonderful friendships that have not only enriched my life, but my work.

Brava, Cynthia.

I completely agree Chris, we are all amateurs. I am always amazed at how much I learn from each painting, that I didn't know before. There is always something to pick up here. I guess the day I stop wanting to improve, is the day I get lowered in the ground!

I also add my kudos to Cynthia for such a spectacular website. I am so thankful to be a part of this professional, well designed site. I've received work (that I probably wouldn't have otherwise) from across the country thanks to Cynthia's efforts in placing SOG everywhere on the search engines.

A great resource, for artists and patrons alike. :D

Okay, Mary. You asked for before and afters. I'm sure you didn't mean two versions of the same picture, but here's my contribution.

A friend in another part of the state asked for a portrait of his cat. I did the charcoal (bottom) about 8 months ago, and I still haven't had a chance to visit my friend, so I hadn't delivered it yet. Earlier this week, I looked at it in horror. I was glad I hadn't given it to him. I started over.

Cynthia, sorry for the animal picture, but it's the best example I have of what Mary was looking for.

(The black spot on his nose is true to life. The portrait wouldn't be right without it)

It's inspiring to hear all this! It is what keeps me going.

I haven't been on this forum long, just a couple months perhaps. I already notice a difference. The first thing is the difference a quality photo makes. Then there was reading Chris Saper's book. Now if I can figure out why I can spot a good composition, but have trouble creating one.

Here is a closeup of my last portrait commission from a couple months ago, and the face I did last week.

My parents-in-law brought their portrait to me from 5 years ago. It was good for me at the time I did it, but it's so awful now. I'm going to attempt to fix it. The drawing is on, the likeness is perfect and the composition is fine. It's the value & edges that make it look like a cartoon.

Hi,

I've meant to reply to this thread for a long time. Guess tonight is the night. I consider this my school, as I'm unable to attend a class regularly (they don't work around my schedule). Some days I'm only able to meditate and don't walk very well. Please don't consider this pity on my part, I'm grateful that pain made me quit trying to be something I'm not. So how much has SOG helped me? No words exist to express the gratitude that I have for this site and all the generous teachers here. This has been my lifeline and connection back to the artworld. Thank you Cynthia, for starting it, someday I will find a way to return the kindness and generosity here.

Jean

For me, this is a way to meet and chat with other artists who share a passion for portraiture.

Painting can be such a lonely profession - long hours spent in isolation. The opportunity to "talk technical" whenever I wish (assuming I have a decent internet connection) has been impossible until now.

I love this Forum!

My dear American friends:

A week later I'll be on a plane over the sky above you. In that closest distance I wish I could greet you.

Cynthia, your influence on me is in the first place.

Mr. Kinstler's book accompanied me to the new continent, inspired me( plus my earlier experience)to overcome an obstacle of years. You may not weigh my appreciation, but, please remember that one of our colleagues, whose name is on the winning list of ASOPA contest, cannot go back to his homeland. My tears come.

Mr. Sanden, your effort promotes portraiture. I propose to ASOPA to held a show in Beijing.

R.B.W., I cannot forget you, you are a living flame. And, thanks all of you.

Your faces are the face of the U.S., which means "Beautiful Country" in Chinese.

Schubert B.Wang