Did someone already say retina-burn? This is astonishing. Congratulations.

That conundrum between looser and tighter brushwork winning higher points with the buying public does seem to go on and on, doesn't it? However, a wonderful painting is just that and transcends categorization. In my humble opinion... Janet

Gosh, Allan! What a terrific painting, such a feeling of energy and power in those strokes and in how you've caught this man's alert athleticism. I love the way you have dashed in those hands and how you direct our attention to the face, which you've painted with insight and sensitivity. I sure wish I could say that I had painted this one.

Alex,
I should so have liked to read your whole essay about not getting too close to reality.

I know why I want to incorporate the looseness in the painting. That is because I love to see the paint and the brush strokes - the process.

I like the vignette character and try to make a space for it even in a finished work. It makes a sort of vibrato to the whole expression, much like the one in the impressionistic paintings by Monet, though not only related to color but also to the shape of things.

Allan

Thank you very much Janet and Linda,

I really enjoy being part of this forum and getting response from wonderful artists like you.

Allan

Allan, this is awesome! I really enjoy looking at your work. Thank you for posting.

Sincere regards,

mischa

Allan,
it's a very intense portrait ! I like the black and white contrast in his clothes, it helps his eyes looking more intense.
Very strong piece!

Lovely Alan! Love the brushwork!

I love this -- so much power in the gaze, the color and the brushwork!

Well said Alex; I couldn't agree more.

Allan this portrait is astonishing to behold! In my mind, this is among the very strongest portraits yet posted. The energy, conviction, and implied animation in Morten is breathtaking through the virtuosity of your brushwork. I defy anyone to do better.

You better win something BIG with this portrait! Congratulations, you do inspire us!

Garth

I don't have any extra to add to what has already been said, but I love how you have done this painting. Your work is an inspiration...