[Margaret Elvin]

Thanks for the feedback on my 'Please Critique' post. I think you're right about the mug shot pose not being appealing. It was not my first choice from my reference photos, but now I realize even more clearly what was lost in the painting by not insisting on a more poetic pose. It is so useful to get honest observations in a critique!

I usually paint to the edge of the page, but maybe I'll experiment with fading off to see how I like that. It might have worked better with that jacket. I'm also wondering if the jacket is just too dark altogether for this particular portrait and subject.

Thanks again,
Margaret