Katie Waxing Antique Chair

[Kenneth Kaiser]

Hello Everyone,

With this extremely cold weather I cannot work either inside or outside on a studio that I am building, so I had a chance to finish a few paintings that I began over a year ago. The model for this painting was so good (in taking direction and in directing herself) that I decided to paint two pieces with her as the subject. (The second painting is nearly finished.) Since the original reference shots involving the model were dramatically different than this final painting, I needed to enlist the help of my wife as a second model: The lighting, shadows, and background were much different than the original shots. Although the glazing of the subject's skirt and blouse cannot be seen, the overall tone of the painting is fairly well represented in this image.

[Richard Monro]

Kenneth,

This is a very striking painting. My immediate reaction was "a Vermeer." Thus you could say you have been placed in very good company by comparison. i would love to see close ups of your glazed skirt. The composition is compelling as well and I liked the strong lighting contrasts. Well done. I am looking forward to your next painting which I hope your will post.

[Alexandra Tyng]

Ken,

I like the rich colors and unusual idea behind this (though I admit, polishing furniture is my most detested activity along with cleaning the refrigerator ). The way you have painted the woman makes me feel as if I am watching her in a contemplative ritual. She looks as if she doesn't know someone is watching. There is a lot of implied movement in her body. It all makes for an intriguing painting.

Can you post some close-ups?

[Kenneth Kaiser]

Hi Richard and Alex,
Thank you for the kind comments. Richard, although I have never seen a Vermeer in person, I am a great admirer of his work. Alex, you must be a mind reader, for your interpretation of this painting is very close to what I intended this painting to "be."

I have attached two closeups, and unlike most shots of my paintings, I am fairly satisified with them (at least on my monitor). Of course the depth of the glazing cannot come across. I like to photograph on very cloudy days with no direct lighting (natural or artificial) and long exposures. Otherwise, those undesireable sparkles from the glazing occur.

Ken

[Tom Edgerton]

Kenneth--

This has atmosphere in spades, plus a unique point of view. There's something about it I find very unique and very familiar at the same time, but I can't define it. It's evocative and compelling to view.