Lacey, Alexandra, and Chris, thank you all for your wonderful comments! My goal for this painting was a feeling of serenity. I take pictures of my boys all the time, looking for that one that's a painting. Most of the time, as kids do, they pose when they see a camera on them. This time I was lucky and caught Trey off guard. I knew before I focused the camera that this was exactly what I wanted to paint. I just held my breath and hoped I could capture the peacefulness in his face before he noticed me. Like I said, I got lucky.
I went back and forth about how strong the horizon line should be. The composition was so triangular and right (our right) heavy that I wanted something to break that up and bring the eye back to the left. That coupled with the small value range, and my reluctant 'in-house' model, I was able to play with the painting more than I would if it was a commission. I knew if I messed it up, it was no big deal!
Alexandra, congratulations on your second honor award at PSA! Beautiful painting!
And Chris it's always good to hear from you! I love your recent work!
thanks again!
Renee