Hello from Oceanside CA
 

Hello! FINALLY, a website devoted to portrait artists who play musical instruments! I sing and play bass guitar (electric only as I don't go near instruments larger than me). So I think we have our portrait artist band - do we have a drummer? And to get the "Name That Band" contest going, my vote is for "The Alla Prima-donnas." But I'm not attached to it. Given our ages and instruments, how about starting off in a classic rock/polka vein? I'm so excited.

My name is David Draime. I teach art at El Camino high school here in beautiful So. Cal. I also teach courses at Palomar community college - Photoshop and portraiture. I've sulked around this website for months now (learned a LOT) and thought it only proper to introduce myself. I love working with charcoal and white pastel on toned paper. I'm now gearing up to do some portraits in oil (I feel like I am at base camp 1 looking up at the summit of Everest). The last oil portrait I did was like twelve years ago and not very good. My goal is to be a FT portrait artist in 5 years. My friends just laugh when I tell them this, but I'm sticking to it. I'll show them!

Anyway, I'm posting my latest, Jolanda, one of my former students (incredible face) just to show everyone what I do. It's charcoal, approx 16 X 20".

I love this site! You guys rock! -David

Quit your day job, man, and go for it. This piece is gorgeous!

David, this is so powerful. You sure are welcome here!

Thank you Michele, and thank you Linda, for your kind words and encouragement. I've visited both your websites many times and am so happy to be in touch with such seasoned professionals. Your work is truly inspiring. I feel so connected now!

Very beautiful and sensitive portrayal.

Welcome aboard!

Hi, David,

Actually, we tried

Hi Marvin,

Thanks for the kind words. I've admired your work for some months now. Your "Sylvia" is beautiful. It's amazing what (you have shown us all) can be done with a small old b&w photo and a ton 'o' talent. Thanks for the warm welcome.

Hi Steven,

Yes, Rock Polka (not to be confused with Rock Lobster) is something to consider. I think it is a genre just waiting to happen - the public (and not just the portrait public, mind you) would eat it up. "What do you do for a living?" "I paint portraits and play bass in a rock-polka band." Could life be any sweeter?

Steven I've really enjoyed your critiques. I'm always amazed at how thorough and spot on you are - every time! Soon (when I get up the nerve) I'll post one of my paintings so you can train that laser eye of yours on it. I look forward to it and I'm sure I'll learn a lot from your feedback. Thanks for being out there.

Bravo!
 

Your piece is beautiful. I sense her being, as though she is alive.