Rob, a posthumous portrait

[Bob Botha]

A dear old friend of mine in South Africa recently died. A week ago I received a DVD of the funeral ceremony, including the photos that were on display depicting events in his life. On seeing this photo, I was compelled to do a portrait from it. The amazing thing, at least to me, was that I completed it in 2 sessions for a total of about 4 hours! I say "amazing" because I usually spend days, or weeks on my paintings, which then turn out totally overworked! As soon as it's dry, I shall be mailing the painting to Rob's wife. I hope that it will please her.

Bob

[Patricia Joyce]

She's treasure it. It's beautiful.

[Margaret Ferguson]

Lovely, beautifully painted, You've captured his personality and gestures. I'm sure it'll bring comfort.

[Bob Botha]

Thanks very much for the encouraging words! His wife loves the painting and told me that it does bring her comfort. She sometimes places it on his favourite chair.

Bob

[Thomasin Dewhurst]

Excellent likeness, Bob.

Are you originally from South Africa? (Your surname does suggest it.)

[Bob Botha]

Thanks, Thomasin, your comment gives me encouragement to continue! Yes, I was born and raised in South Africa (Johannesburg).

Bob

[Enzie Shahmiri]

Bob,

Sorry to hear about the passing of your friend. It is a very sensitively painted portrait and will surely make his wife very happy to see that you care so much.