William and Emily
 

32" x 24", oil on Claessens 13SP.

Oh, Michael, this is spectacular! You are really on your way!

Can you post some face closeups?

Hello Michele:

Thanks for your kind words. This is that commission I was working on in the evenings during our class. It was difficult, but I am happy with the results.

My shots of it are not as good as I had hoped they would be, but...here are closeups:

First Emily:

This shot of William is a little dark, but it gets you in there a bit:

William and Emily
 

Michael,

This is a fantastic achievement. From the expression, posture and closeness of the subjects, to the handling of the chair and textures in the background, you have caught the spirit of this young pair. The way you have handled her blue dress in particular is delightful.
Superb!

Patrick

And you're coming on Stroke of Genius when?

Cynthia:

Soon, I hope! I am trying to get things together to do it sometime in June or July. I have just been so busy that I have not had time! :)

Patrick: Thanks for your comments. I owe you an email back on your portrait that you sent me. Look for it soon! :)

Terrific painting, Michael! I love the pose, and you really have a feel for the way fabric drapes; not everybody can do this well. (Did you like working on the SP linen?)

Linda:

I have to say that I really enjoy the SP linen. It is really easy to stretch, has a great oil primed surface where the weave is not so pronounced that it interferes with fine detail work, but is there enough to give the work a nice organic surface quality. It is great stuff! :)