Emily, in pastel

[Bob Botha]

My niece, Susan, who I haven't seen in 28 years and her family from Scotland, paid us a visit last Saturday while on vacation in the USA. I was fascinated by her children, particularly her youngest daughter, Emily, who had the most delicate features and what I can only describe as an "old fashioned" countenance. She looked as if she came straight out of "LIttle Women", or "Pride and Predjudice"! Unfortunately, with so little time at hand, I was not able to take any portrait type photos, so all I had after they had left, was a group shot. After blowing it up on my computer, I saw Emily, backlit against the evening sunset, soft and grainy from the over enlargement and I knew I just had to try to capture the moment. This is the result, 9x11 pastel, on tinted paper.

[Christy Talbott]

Bob, it's a such sweet portrait. It must've been wonderful to see your niece again and her children for the first time. This portrait of Emily does have an old time feeling about it that I like, soft and pretty. I'm sure she and her mom are thrilled with it!

[Bob Botha]

Christy, thank you so much for your kind words! Yes, we had a super day, reminiscing and discussing their travel plans. They as yet are unaware of the portrait's existence since they are still "on the road".

[Salina Ramsay]

Emotionally striking! F. Scott would love this. She could be Zelda.
Salina

[Bob Botha]

Sorry for the delayed response, Salina, but I've just come accross your message. Thank you for looking! Yes, her features have a timeless quality.