[John Bruso]

Chris,

Thanks for taking time to write such a great critique of my family in the park painting. I agree with every comment you made and I will be more aware of those things as I jump into my next project. You especially nailed the problems I have with lighting and tangents. It is sad that the same problems keep creeping up in my work over and over. Why don't I learn? Of all my professional work so far, that particular painting is my least favorite (and most recent). I think I was in a hurry and also working with a client who really tried to take control of the project and the process. Do you have any advice for me on how to deal with such tough clients?

I just visited your site. Your work is very beautiful. I love the soft edges and colors. I also like how you have simplified the portraits and made the painting all about the face. Often I want to take on the same sort of style, but everyone that hires me wants these elaborate, detailed pieces that are more like an illustration. On one hand, it is wonderful that people recognize my style as unique, but it makes me hesitate to try something new given the small amounts of time I actually have to paint.

Thank you, again Chris. Your comments are very valuable to me. I will post my next painting in a month or so and you can take a look at how I used your advice, and whether or not I learned from my mistakes.

Mara