What about the hand

[Alexandra Tyng]

Originally Posted by Allan Rahbek

What I don't see won't confuse me, only what I do see!

Jan, I think all the advice you've been getting is excellent, so I don't have much to add, but Allan's comment here really sums it up. I would go over the entire portrait, including the hand, correcting all drawing problems. The areas of hands and face are, as you know, simply areas of smaller-scale shapes and edges that need smaller-scale attention, as described above. The first and third fingers of the hand read incorrectly to me, but I think when you reaccess the forms, edges, values, etc., you will correct the way they read. It's a lovely painting and I can't wait to see what you do with it.

[Jan Verhulst]

Thanks Alexandra. I let it rest for a while and start again with a fresh eye.

[Chris Saper]

Dear Jan,

I do agree with all that has been said regarding drawing and accuracy - and for a commission piece, very critical. I would not choose this hand position for a portrait.

However, I have to say also that I love this little painting the way it is - as a painting. I love the color harmony, your unmistakable style, the composition, and even the weird hand position. I even love those quirky little dark hard- edged strands of hair - they remind me of calligraphy.

[Jan Verhulst]

Chris, thank you for your kind feedback. I understand that you would not choose this hand position for a portrait For me it was a challenge, I love this artificial pose. Ofcourse it is not a commission piece ( no one asked me for a commission so far ) Anyway the piece is resting now, I changed again to watercolors. One day I start again with it with all this feedback in mind.
Regards
Jan

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