The Bis
 

The prodigal son returns and he's found religion, or should I say, its found him. At 135 cm by 85 cm, this portrait is by far the largest I've attempted. (Now I know how Sharon feels working on her huge pastels.)

The Bishop was painted on a "RealGesso" linen panel made for me by Max Howard. It's a fine surface to work on. I need to rest my hand on the surface I paint on which is why I prefer panels and linen panels. The linen surface was ideal for the thick, "painterly" handling I had in mind for this subject.

While working on the Bishop I was also painting a commissioned nude and needed to turn him against the wall because I felt his eyes on me (or perhaps the nude). I don't know how artists can work with others watching, real or imaginary.

I've attached a few close ups just to keep an eye on things...

Amazing! Thank you so much for the close ups.

Scott you are a modern Titian.
Ilaria

Wow! This is just a beautiful portrait, Scott.

The realgesso is a wonderful surface!

He has such wonderful presence. Very nice!

Scott, gosh that's beautiful. I love the way you handled the cast shadows around the mouth. The way you depict the reflective light is superb. The whole painting is knock down awesome.

Oh Joy!
 

A man in costume! How did I miss that one!

Scott, what a wonderful painting, with great presence and beautiful and subtle form. I just love the magenta!

About painting big. There are times when I want to make them into rafts and float them down the nearest river, just to be rid of them.

Just gorgeous Scott! Love the built up light, how you handled the different reds, his wrinkles... gorgeous!

Wow, this looks fantastic, great expression.

Scott, this is very intense and so fine. I love it. You have a highly distinctive style and color sense that is very much your own. Congratulations on another stunner. (I wouldn't mind seeing that hand up close, too.)