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This is a wonderful portrait! With all respects to Karin and her genius, I disagree with her eye shadow thought. But I think Joseph's sax thought is a consideration, though certainly not a requirement for this painting. You have the final say: artist's license. Regarding the eye being lost, I think not. The shadow in this particular area will be its darkest right here, because of reflected light on the right most side of the face causing it to lighten a bit towards the right. I like the fact that you dared to leave it dark. If the face were lighter in any way, it would not match the rest of the painting. You would have to follow suit with the shirt as well. That would be a mistake.
I would do about half as much as Joseph did with the sax, so that the metal has a little more sparkle in one or two spots, but not so much as to compete. I think you wanted to feature your son more than the sax.
I like the shadow values. Some would feel compelled to show more light in these areas, especially the face. It is very subjective. I think that is the beauty of this painting, and certainly on of the most difficult decisions as well. It would ruin it to change part of it. It is very well balanced in my view.
It is very much a Sweeney. THAT is a compliment. Your style has come through here.
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