The skin is very lifelike--smooth and solid--good to see the close-ups. I can see the influence of your studies with Marvin, yet it is your own style. Thank you for posting these. Patty!

Thanks, Alexandra!

Congratulations Patty. I had no doubt they'd love it. I proud of the way you battled through this one. The greatest opportunity for growth always comes when things are difficult. When things go smoothly and we're not challenged, it's easy to go on auto-pilot. Not to say we can't enjoy the less challenging opportunities either! ;-)

Learning to paint is the second hardest thing for a human being to master. I know you will take what you learned here and use it as a stepping stone for future commissions. I think your biggest problem was your preparation, or the lack there of, regarding your reference. More care in the beginning equals less hassle in the end.

I'm proud to see that you took what we focused in on in the January Atlanta workshop and used those things to try to overcome the inadequacies of your photos. Imagine what it will be like the next time when you work from good ones. I'm excited to see the results.

Alex I thank you for your astute observation regarding the influence my teaching had on Patty. It's very important to me that my students maintain the character of their own intrinsic way of working. What I try teach is the underlying thought processes that I see underlying all great painting, regardless of how tight or loose, or how academic or expressive.

Thanks, Marvin. I have begun a painting for my own pleasure with a reference photo I have had for six months, been dying to paint. And the beginning IS going more smoothly! I definately tend to learn things the hard way, but I always trust the foundation you have helped me lay.