Sussanah P.
 

Here is the head detail of a recent painting. The painting is in oil and measures 20" x 24". Multiple light sources were problematic. (From the left and right and a reflecting light from the rear on our left.)

A full painting follows but I still have some problems with my digital camera and the contrast in the latter is too strong. Especially the background and jacket shadows tend to look black or near black on my screen.

The full painting.
 

I didn't like both collars inside the jacket nor did I like both out and oddly enough ended up with each situation. The subject never noticed or cared.

Jim,

You have succeeded in surmounting the difficulties presented by your three light sources. With your experience and ability, you do it handily and have created a successful portrait that has character. However, you might warn those with less experience to try and avoid complicated light. It is sure easy to screw it up.

You and I both know that your white collar treatment adds character and gives the painting more personality. Subtle things like that are indeed important, aren

:thumbsup: A masterpiece, indeed! It is a tasty blend of realism and impressionism - such a nice flare! It is this kind of unique style which makes a painting stand out.

Jim,

This is a grand painting, and in my view, much like Doris. I can't really think of anything that falls short. Your edges are handled with great skill. Was this more difficult to do with such complicated light?

Beautiful job.

While the lights on my left and right tended to flatten the form a little more than I expected, my reference revealed the form enough to do the job. The slightly stronger right to left light provided a soft shadow and foil for the reflected light that I enjoyed painting. I also had a little fun with the earrings. While the original shows some subtle color difference between the earrings and the background, they are identified more so by their highlights and shadows.