I agree, Andrew Tift's "Kitty" is an interesting triptych portrait.

As always with Andrew Tifts work I found it exquisite up close... incidentally I noticed on his blog that he is giving a one week course focusing on Super-realist portraiture at the Andreeva Portrait Academy, Santa Fe, New Mexico, in September 2007.

http://www.andrewtift.co.uk/portrait-artist/?p=76

Hello all,

I made it in this year with a portrait of my brother - a painting that seems to make sense to no one other than myself (there is indeed, a story behind it) I think it's quite crucial, especially as artists, to remain open-minded and accepting of the fact that everyone comes from a different background and is influenced by a broad range of techniques, styles, periods, etc. I believe the BP 2007 exhibition to be a great collection of portraiture, one of which reflects and appeals perhaps to a more contemporary fare ... and one of which I am happy to take part of.

That's great!
 

Dear Maryam,

I want to congratulate you! I would love to see an image of your accepted portrait; however, having just vistited your website, I have no doubt of its merit. All your works comprise sophisticated accomplishment, and are beautifully compelling in their intimate scale and composition. Thanks for sharing your wonderful and well deserved news!

If possible, could you share an image of your portrait of your brother here?

Garth

Dear Garth,

Thank you so very much for your kind and warm response. It means a lot coming from an artist of such respectable and admirable caliber. As requested, I've attached a picture of my brothers portrait. It may not be everyone's cup of tea (including my own, as I find my taste ever-shifting) - but there you have it!
The inspiration struck whilst my brother was experiencing a rough patch in life. During that period of time, his courage to maintain a healthy dose of childlike humor (evidenced by placing a flower vase upside down on his head) had moved me. It was one of those rare moments when I had actually envisioned the finish painting prior to tackling the easel. I hope this brief explanation will provide a bit of insight as to my motivation and the expression of the piece as it wasn't meant to portray flippancy - contrary to the possible impression at first glance...

All the best,
Maryam

I like that, Maryam. Very much, actually. Such a strong portrait, and a happy quirk with it. No wonder you got in. You draw very well, and I looked at your website and was most impressed. Congratulations! I wish you would post more of your works here on the forum, I would very much like to see and discuss them with you.

It doesn't look flippant, but, instead, humourous: as though you were presenting humour as something to consider intellectually and take seriously.

Hi Maryam,

I love it! This portrait has genuine impact and is supremely memorable, making it an essential piece of the show. Imparting considerable energy in your concise and direct composition, the vase being pushed to center indeed creates a strong statement of your brother! I admire the purposeful strength you endow all your portraits and paintings. Thanks for sharing this with the Forum. Bravo, and congratulations; it is an honor to have you here!

Garth

Thomasin, you say things so well!

I am trying to imagine in response to Maryam's innovative portrait, what the impact and uproar may be if, say one of us with a serious regular portrait commission pushed it likewise off center; like a federal judge pushed to the edge! It could be humorous and quite interesting to chance such a risky statement. I love it when a single humble image wakes up and shakes up everything else in its wake.

Garth

Hello Maryam,

This a strong and moving portrait. I love it and its composition as well.
I love the colors you have used. Much more intense than some other portraits you are showing on your website, and I find that appealing.

Anyway, tons of congratulations!

Karine

Dear Thomasin, Garth, and Karine,

Thank you all for being so wonderfully welcoming and taking to time to express feedback on my work - I'm most appreciative! I'll admit to feeling a bit like a fish out of water when it comes to hearing opinions on my work, thus finding this incredibly insightful. I shall try to fend off intimidation and participate in this lovely forum more often.

Stay well,
Maryam