Brenda,

I think you may be right about the shoulder. I guess I am a little chicken! (Bock, bock :) ) I can see in my mind how it would look if it was pulled off sucessfully, but I am afraid that I'd end up making it look like something is missing or leaving some want of the other shoulder. Again, bock bock bock!

Molly,

Unfortunately this wasn't a commission. (Still waiting to get some of those.) But, I am really glad to use this lady as a model! I saw her at the grocery store and couldn't resist, so I gave her my card and said to call if she was interested, then proceeded to run away. But she called and is even willing to sit for hours while I paint!

I will do as you suggested and experiment with the Wallis paper. This is my first time using it and I'm very happy with the results... boy does the stuff stick! I also bought 2 sticks of Sennelier just to try out on this one and was happy with the different feel from the Rembrandts, and can see now how I could use both differently.

I'm under the spell now! There goes my tiny bank account! :exclamati

Here's an updated finished one (unless I get some guts on the shoulder). Just a couple finishing touches and the smoothing of the throat area.

Lacey, you have taken to pastels like a fishy to water. I think you have done a great job. You sure did capture an attitude. Have you tried Nu-pastels? If you like Rembrandt's you just mike like them too. PM me and I will send you some of the extras I have so you can try them and maybe add something to your collection. I am always happy to see people liking pastels.

Thanks so much for the kind words!

I have not tried Nu-pastels and will be excitedly pm-ing you right away! :sunnysmil

Lacey,
At the rate you are going, you will be getting commissions in no time! The pastel work emerging from this forum is getting downright impressive. Nicely done.