Jack

Mary Sparrow · 03-17-2004, 09:36 AM

Jack is my first attempt at doing more than a head with pastels. The resource photo can be seen here http://forum.portraitartist.com/showthread.php?t=3903

There was so much light on the nose in the resource photo, it made his nose look to wide in the portrait, so the mother stood here with me until we got what SHE says is right. However Im wondering if this works since there puts more shadow on the right side?

Also, the hand in the resource photo is as bright as the face. In person it doesn't seem to stick out like it does on this computer, any thoughts on that?

The mom says to leave the hair as is.

If there is anything else bothering you let me know. I have looked too much to be objective anymore. Thanks.

Michele Rushworth · 03-17-2004, 11:10 AM

This is a very powerful, energetic image. Nice job, Mary!

I didn't compare any likeness issues (and at this point, if the mom has seen it and likes it as it is, you'd be best not to change anything in that area.)

The only suggestion I'd make for future portraits is that the shadows seem awfully black and cold. This is something that happens all the time in photo reference, of course. In life there would be more light and color in those areas, and that would do the whole image some good.

Otherwise, very nice!

Mary Sparrow · 03-17-2004, 11:18 AM

Thanks Michelle,

I agree about the shadows,and I took that into account when painting this. In person the shadows are not nearly as black. For that matter, I didn't use any black except in his pupils. I still can't figure this camera out. Everything looks a bit off to me no matter how much I fiddle with it in PSP.

Mary Sparrow · 03-17-2004, 05:04 PM

Ok, I took this picture again in better light. I don't know if it helps or not. I do know that I don't like that shadow on the chair in the upper right.

Why are things so obvious on the computer that aren't in person?

Denise Hall · 03-19-2004, 12:35 AM

Mary,

What a great portrait - the colors are luscious and your style is so beautiful! I agree about the shadow coldness but it's a learning experience always!

Denise

Kimberly Dow · 03-19-2004, 01:23 AM

This is lovely Mary! The only thing that bothers me is the pantleg closest to us, where the shadow is. My eye is drawn to that first - maybe just soften the edge?

Lynn Der · 03-19-2004, 08:15 PM

Mary - if this is your first attempt at a full portrait in pastel, you've done a great job. First, the composition and pose are very original - easier said than done, from my experience. The other thing I love is the limited palette you used - it gives a calm, soft feeling to the painting.

There really is nothing that bothers me, except maybe the shadow on the right (on the chair).

The mom should be very happy! Good work!

Lynn Der

Terri Ficenec · 03-19-2004, 09:11 PM

Hi Mary - This is really very sweet! The soft browns have that soft feel of an old fashioned (sepia) photo. Just wondering if the pillow reads a little flat on the upper right?

Richard Huante · 03-19-2004, 10:58 PM

Hi Mary,

Wonderful portrait, great pose/composition. I have a couple of suggestions, if you don't mind.

I believe adding some reddish tones to his hand will help to give it form, particularly in the knuckles. I realize a child's hand is generally smooth, but i think some definition here would add to the picture. Also, it appears there's a tangent line where the pant leg and middle finger meet. Perhaps you could "raise" the pant leg slightly to show all of his finger? Just a little nitpicking, I like everything else very much. I know his mom will love it.

Sincerely,