Eliot 8x11 pastel on wallis

I have been digging through old work lately getting ready for my exhibit in October. It is just good to look at the past with a fresh eye. This is a pastel of my son which I think I did about 6 years ago. I did a series of him to practice portraiture. Even though I can see so many structural and color issues I still love this.

Last week was his birthday and I had lots of fun posting baby photos of him on facebook. He was a good sport. Now 24 and working in Germany I think about him often and was happy to come across this image of him. I do think it captures his soul.

The Reception 12x9 oil

Weddings are so much fun.  This one took place on a ranch in Ojai under the open sky.  Thought I would try my hand at painting the subjects during their first dance.  I am hoping to give it to them as a gift.  

Eliot Sketch #2 11x8 pastel

Here is another one of Eliot done a few years ago.  I think I got a slight likeness of him at the time.  It is hard to draw my children as I know all their little nuances.  I know all the little expressions that go beyond what they look like but adds so much to who they are and and in the end what they look like.  I think it is the spirit of the person that comes across in a good likeness.  Oh how I want to capture that. 

Last Detail 12.5x16 pastel on wallis paper

We were in Hana on a family vacation when I came across this group of soldiers in formation marching down the street.  They were leaving a funeral of one of their own.  It always struck me that the last man was alone.  I will not forget this scene.  

I did this awhile back and just needed to finish up a few things.  It was time.