Admiral
 

Just finished this one for the Naval War College. We'll probably unveil it up there sometime before Christmas.

I think this is a fairly good photo of it.

Best to all---TE

Hi Tom,

This portrait has an uplifting feeling that I really like, maybe because the color is so clear and the sunlight so bright. I think it also has to do with the man's expression. He looks as though he really loves his job, or maybe he's a cheerful man who lifts other people's spirits. Nice work!

Alex

Tom,

Congratulations on another successful portrait! Please post some close-ups when you get the chance.

Tom, this is so impressive for so many reasons, not the least of which is the difficult perspective design you have so successfully brought off. One of the things I like so much about your work generally is that your paintings have such a sense of humanity, regardless of the official position of the subject. Congratulations on another outstanding portrait!

Excellent, Tom and congraulations!

Excellent job Tom. It feels so dimensional.

How large is the work?

L

I really like the way you handled the angles with the flags, building and floor keeping the focus on the Admiral. I am assuming it is done in oil?

Very well done portrait.

Tom,

Congratulations on another wonderful portrait. I especially love his pleasant expression!

Thanks, y'all, for these good words.

Alexandra--The value plan is driven by mood, yes, but intentional, too, as I wanted a higher than usual background key to merge with the whites so they wouldn't take over. Also wanted a heavy shadow side to the head against the sky to balance all of the darker values around the middle of the canvas, hence this lighting. Glad you like it.

Chris--Thanks...will do ASAP.

Linda--A lot of the architecture there is pretty fortress-like, and relentlessly mid-century geometric...I had to gulp when I saw it. (But hey, I'm a mid-century guy!) Thanks so much for the words about capturing spirit as I know this is equally important to you in your work. I hope my striving for this overcomes any deficiencies in technique.

Cynthia--Thanks! This was an SOG contact.

Linda--It's 33x44, with a nine-inch head (to the chin).

Virginia--Thanks...This was the most complicated of the requested concepts. It's a specific place at the College, and there was a lot to juggle. It is an oil portrait. I'm not above using compositional elements to say " HEY, LOOK HERE!"

Kim--Thanks... I admire Rembrandt (!), but I usually end up liking my subjects, so the attitude finally reflects more Frans Hals, maybe? If only!

Best to all--TE

Chris--

As requested....

A wonderful portrait, Tom. I like how well you've integrated the background with the subject, and I also enjoy seeing what has become your signature style: pleasant expressions on the subjects. Congratulations!

To me, this looks like a lovely portrait of a good, decent man. Well done.

Thanks again to all!

Tom,

Congratulations! What an excellent, perfect portrait. I love how the Admiral gives full attention to his audience, and yet by his slight turn he ties into all the supporting perspective depth behind him. That is brilliant!

Garth

Garth--

I appreciate so much this affirmation...you know I've been struggling.

In relation to the pose, I heard Bart Lindstrom say many years ago that subjects are more interesting if the head, torso and limbs are "twisted," that is, if they don't all line up in the same plane. Sounds simple, but it's easy to forget to play around when you're in the thick of working with someone who isn't used to posing.

Also, as Mr. Kinstler counsels, the subjects pose themselves, and it pays to watch and see what they do spontaneously, rather than manipulating them so much into something that doesn't feel--or look--natural.

Many thanks!--TE

Tom this is a gorgeous painting! You just keep getting better and better! I love the clarity of color (especially in the flesh). Very well done!

take care,

Renee