Going to use it anyway - Angelique
 

I know this is not the best photo, but after much going back and forth I'm going to paint it anyway. I'll post my WIP in the WIP forum.

Here's my two cents worth
 

Hi Kimber -

I'm sure you'll get advice from many people more skilled than I, but I wanted to respond anyway.

First of all, she is a lovely little girl. The pose reminds me of Bougereau (hope I spelled the name right) and the dress is wonderful. The lighting appears to be mainly coming from above, and the effects are very subtle. Because they are so subtle, and the lighting/colors are so gentle, I would beg you to reconsider the idea of the stark darks you are discussing, especially the reddish brown floor. You might want to look at some of the great B's works for inspiration.

Julie

Thanks, Julie, for taking the time to answer. I had posted some paintings here that have inspired me, but I think I'll wait and look at some Bouguereau paintings, as you have suggested. I was thinking "mysteriousness." Now, I'm not sure.