Alex

Garth Parker · 04-11-2005, 09:55 AM

Alex is an 11x14 oil on canvas completed this weekend.

Jerome

Linda Brandon · 04-11-2005, 11:11 AM

I really like this, Jerome,and I'm enjoying seeing your work on the Forum. You seem to be attracted to outdoor lighting situations and I think you should really pursue all aspects of this: explore how other outdoor painters handle outdoor color, light/dark ratio, edge control, etc. As far as this painting is concerned the only suggestions I would make is to soften the edges and take a good lookk at the shoulder slope on our left - does it really make an unbroken line from neck to shoulder? I also think you might benefit from working on a larger canvas.

Jean Kelly · 04-11-2005, 06:05 PM

Hi Jerome,

I agree with Linda, and also wanted to make another suggestion. On my computer I see very dark shadows, almost black, in the area of the opening of his mouth, and the nasal fold, as well as many other places. I'm wondering if this is because of working from a photo? Those areas can look very dark on a photo, but in reality are much softer and lighter.

I like this too, and enjoy your work also. Have you worked from life yet?

Jean

Lisa Ober · 04-11-2005, 07:17 PM

Jerome, I am quickly becoming a fan of yours. I rather like the elevated contrast I see in your work so the nostril or any other darker areas for that matter don't bother me at all. It's almost a signature of your paintings. On that note, I think it also adds to the intensity that daylight can bring. I do think you could work bigger which may give you a bit more freedom. It actually amazes me that you did this on such a small canvas. That's a real accomplishment!

Kimberly Dow · 04-11-2005, 11:20 PM

Very nice! I would agree with Linda that some edges could be softened to be more life-like and less like a photo.

Terri Ficenec · 04-11-2005, 11:57 PM

Hi Garth--
I also really like this one. The top of the head/forehead reads as maybe a bit short? ... but that could just be the hat. There is a lot to like in the face and flesh tones. I especially like how you've handled the stubbly beard.

Garth Parker · 04-12-2005, 06:37 AM

Linda, Jean, Lisa, Kim and Terri
Thank you for your responses. I always look forward to any critiques. There are some proportional discrepancies (namely the eyes) as well as my usual harsh contrast and sharp photo-like edges. I