I recently posted a 1930 high school graduation photo over in the photo critique section, which you can see at
http://forum.portraitartist.com/show...&threadid=3482
My client wanted this to be the basis of a figurative portrait of his mother, who today is a still beautiful, yet more mature woman. He wanted this to be a surprise for her.
His only directive was he wanted a beautiful painting of a beautiful young woman and left the rest up to me. I chose a Chinese motif, since this was popular at that time. I felt it was appropriate and would give me the opportunity to explore a variety of textures, appealing colors and interesting objects.
I found a model with a similar look who was the right size. I created the composition after locatinging the appropriate props and costume.
You can view a larger version on my website at
http://www.fineartportrait.com/sylvia_painting.html
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