Beautiful painting, model and pose. I love those vibrant flesh tones. One of my favorites also.

Thank you all for such nice comments. I ahve been working hard to get my photographic resources under control, and it makes everything SO much easier when you can see what you're doing.

nice work

I find the cold colors on the hair are really successful

Chris, I love this. The slightly emphasized lines in some areas ( her near shoulder, her back, the shadow under her right hand as it lies on her arm ) give this heightened energy and interest. Beautiful portrait!

Leslie

Awesome, Chris. Is this the one I saw in progress at the Farmer's Market (where Chris demonstrates here in Phoenix)? Great profile view!

Sincerely,

Definitely my new favorite Chris Saper painting!

So glad you're getting so many well deserved hurrays. You deserve all of them.

I agree. This is your best so far. Good going!

Simply beautiful Chris,
Thanks for posting it here for our enjoyment. I find it interesting that the ear, even though it truly is red, works well with the rest of the painting. I would love to sculpt that face!

Chris, can you tell me what the shape is behind her back. I've been staring at it and trying to figure it out. Is it a sash, or a shadow?

Michele,

Despite my best efforts at Photoshop, I still have darks blocked up a bit, but the dress is just a length of fabric grabbed into a bustle-like sash at the back.

Here are some of the interim steps in this painting:

First, the oil sketch;