Live Self-Portrait

Mai Ly · 06-20-2003, 01:27 PM

Hello Everyone,

This is a self-portrait, which I recently did just for practice. The painting was done live, alla prima, with oil on (very cheap) canvas, and is size 14x18. This is how I look, in the mirror, when I paint in my studio

Sincerely,
Mai

Mai Ly · 06-20-2003, 01:29 PM

And here is the close-up

Holly Snyder · 06-20-2003, 10:10 PM

Mai,

You created a beautiful, intense self-portrait. The colors are wonderful.

Mike Dodson · 06-23-2003, 09:31 AM

Mai,

Nice painting! It has an "Old Master" quality to it that I really like, particularly how your hair blends into the dark background.

Mai Ly · 06-23-2003, 11:07 PM

Thanks Holly and Mike for your kind words

Mai

John Zeissig · 06-24-2003, 05:26 PM

Mai,

I second Holly's comment about the color work.

I think the facial expression you've captured is really compelling. The slightly pursed lips and the intent gaze convey a feeling of relaxed concentration. It's a convincing portrayal of an artist at work.

John

Mai Ly · 06-25-2003, 09:15 AM

Thank you John for the compliments.

I think I will darken the value on my right cheek and the turning edge (from light to dark on the same side) a bit. I looked at it again this morning, and all of a sudden that part of the face really came forward, when it really not supposed to. I am not sure if I am seeing things or not.

Mai