Michael

[Alexandra Tyng]

Bob, I like the pose. It's different in a way that seems to directly relate to the subject, your son. Great likeness, too.

[Bob Botha]

Alexandra, thank you so much for your kind words, I need all the encouragement I can get! I must agree that the likeness in this painting is pretty close. This is due, I'm sure, to the fact that I did a lot of measuring with a pair of proportional dividers, a method which I find works better for me than any of the other methods of copying a photo. Also, knowing one's subject well can't hurt, either!

[Richard Monro]

Nice likeness. I am also a high chroma painter. The chroma you used here gives an intensity to the portrait that is quite interesting. Does your son have a strong personality? If so the chroma gives a hint of that.

Will this be a gift to your son?

[Bob Botha]

Thanks, Richard. Unfortunately, the painting's colors became somewhat saturated and darker after re-sizing it in Photoshop! If I am a high chroma painter, it's not by intent, but rather by accident as I grope my way along trying to analyze flesh colours and translate them into paint. I still have a long way to go. I do, however like contrasty, strong background colours. As far as my son's personality goes, he's pretty laid back and easy going and yes, this will be a Christmas present for him, although he is aware of it.