Self/Charcoal

Leopoldo Benavidez · 08-02-2002, 11:14 PM

This originally started out as a sketch only and then into a oil painting, but I got carried away in the joys of charcoal and decided to leave it as such, a 12x16 on a birch panel! I promised myself years ago to do a portrait of self once a year, maybe a mental wishful Rembrandt thing going. Anyway, this is the second only in 13 years. Thanks for any comments!

Chris Saper · 08-02-2002, 11:29 PM

Dear Leopoldo,

This is a gorgeous piece - loose, fresh, and immediate. This portrait also has a varied line quality that feels unrehearsed. Thanks for posting!

p.s. What is the surface you have used?

Leopoldo Benavidez · 08-02-2002, 11:40 PM

Chris, you sweetheart, my heroine, thanks for the gracious comments, well received, especially from the so accomplished! Panels, traditionally gessoed with rabbit skin glue and whiting.

Mike McCarty · 08-03-2002, 12:40 PM

Leo,

I would like to start a new genre "self portrait - borrowed face."

Very nice indeed. Much style and confidence.

BTW, I brought back some Cuban cigars from Belize. They are a little strong for my taste.

Leopoldo Benavidez · 08-03-2002, 03:13 PM

Thanks Mike!

On the subject of Cubanos. I have only tried a few in my lifetime and wasn't impressed, but maybe I didn't get my hands on the good ones like Cohiba, etc. Dominican is just a short jump from Cuba and satisfy my tastes since they can be bought USA. What was the brand of Cubano?......L

Mike McCarty · 08-03-2002, 07:46 PM

Leo,

They were Cohiba, and they were no bargain. I think I paid $9 US for each of them. I also prefer the Dominicans.

Chris,

Would you be in the Cuban or the Dominican camp?

Leopoldo Benavidez · 08-05-2002, 07:31 PM

Quote:

Would you be in the Cuban or the Dominican camp?

Mike, what do you mean?

Mike McCarty · 08-05-2002, 08:01 PM

Leo,

Just more of my misguided humor. Was wondering if Chris preferred the Cuban cigars or the Dominican cigars.

Lon Haverly · 09-23-2002, 03:15 AM

This is a beautiful masterpiece. I can't agree more about the joys of charcoal. I have spent thirty years in charcoal, and I love it.

Your drawing is sponteneous and disciplined all at once. That only comes with much practice and a taste for the medium.

Leopoldo Benavidez · 09-24-2002, 08:11 PM

Thanks Lon, are you still doing the mall thing?..L