Self/Charcoal
 

This originally started out as a sketch only and then into a oil painting, but I got carried away in the joys of charcoal and decided to leave it as such, a 12x16 on a birch panel! I promised myself years ago to do a portrait of self once a year, maybe a mental wishful Rembrandt thing going. Anyway, this is the second only in 13 years. Thanks for any comments!

Dear Leopoldo,

This is a gorgeous piece - loose, fresh, and immediate. This portrait also has a varied line quality that feels unrehearsed. Thanks for posting!

p.s. What is the surface you have used?

Chris, you sweetheart, my heroine, thanks for the gracious comments, well received, especially from the so accomplished! Panels, traditionally gessoed with rabbit skin glue and whiting.

Leo,

I would like to start a new genre "self portrait - borrowed face."

Very nice indeed. Much style and confidence.

BTW, I brought back some Cuban cigars from Belize. They are a little strong for my taste.

Thanks Mike!

On the subject of Cubanos. I have only tried a few in my lifetime and wasn't impressed, but maybe I didn't get my hands on the good ones like Cohiba, etc. Dominican is just a short jump from Cuba and satisfy my tastes since they can be bought USA. What was the brand of Cubano?......L

Leo,

They were Cohiba, and they were no bargain. I think I paid $9 US for each of them. I also prefer the Dominicans.

Chris,

Would you be in the Cuban or the Dominican camp?

Mike, what do you mean?

Leo,

Just more of my misguided humor. Was wondering if Chris preferred the Cuban cigars or the Dominican cigars.

This is a beautiful masterpiece. I can't agree more about the joys of charcoal. I have spent thirty years in charcoal, and I love it.

Your drawing is sponteneous and disciplined all at once. That only comes with much practice and a taste for the medium.

Thanks Lon, are you still doing the mall thing?..L