Sylvia at Seventeen

[Marvin Mattelson]

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

[Marvin Mattelson]

This is a close-up of her head.

[Tom Edgerton]

Marvin--

This is an awesome work.

In your workshop in June we got a look at the painstaking lengths that you went to to prepare the reference, including researching the design of the hair braid. All of that has obviously paid off. But none of that prep work overshadows or intrudes on the pure delight and integrity of the thing itself, which is the way it should be.

She's beautiful.

Best--Tom

[Marvin Mattelson]

Thank you Tom. I really appreciate your kind response. It means a lot to me.

[Jean Kelly]

Marvin,

She is beautiful, I'm so glad you decided to paint from the photo. I thought it was lovely, and would have loved to work from it myself. It's much better to see the results from the hands of a master. As always, please post more details.

Jean

[ReNae Stueve]

Marvin,

How Beautiful. I wish I could see the look on the client's face when you unveil it.

I've been trying to work from a few old sepia's Tell me how you landed so well on the skin tones.

Your choice on "theme" is perfect for her expression. Absolutely perfect.

ReNae

Marvin, when I saw this, I actually said a bad word. It's amazing.

Lisa

[Lynn T. McCallum]

WoW, WoW!

Maybe later I can gather my wits enough to write something intelligent.

'Sylvia' has just blown me away.

Lisa! You only said one bad word? Surley, 'Sylvia'is worth more than that! Three bad words came out of my mouth all at the same time

[Henry Wienhold]

This is obviously portraiture at the highest level. Magnificent color harmony, a beautiful subject skillfully rendered with expert precision. To me this portrait is an inspiration.

[Timothy C. Tyler]

Really a lovely head Marvin (and painting). How big is it?