A short introduction: Clive Fullagar

Clive Fullagar · 11-12-2002, 03:04 PM

Hi, everyone.

Just wanted to introduce myself and post an example of my work. I will also post this portrait in the Critique section, so forgive the duplication.

It is only recently that I have returned to painting. I am especially interested in figurative and portrait oils. Please feel free to comment on the painting below. I am a psychologist by profession and it is easy for me to find a reason to deny any criticism that is too harsh or diagnose the critic with an appropriate psychological disorder. Joking aside, I would welcome any comments.

The first portait that I would like to submit is an oil painting of my eldest son, entitled "Captive Son." The dimensions of the piece are 31" x 22". Anyone who has grown up with a sixteen-year-old son will understand the pose and the expression. This is one of the things that I really like about the portrait, the way it captures the moodiness and attitude of teenage-hood.

I have incorporated several metaphors in the painting. On the artist's easel is a self- portrait of myself dressed in Indiana Jones-like apparel. (Trust me, I do not usually don this kind of attire.) The point I am making here is that as fathers, we all try to act the hero for our sons, which is a role that is often difficult to fulfill. The fruit in the foreground is symbolic of my three children. (The fruit of my... well you get it).

The son portrayed is my middle son, hence the color connection between the middle apple and the shirt. There are other symbols, like the "burning bush" in the background, but I have said enough. I am really looking forward to being a part of this Forum.

Chris Saper · 11-12-2002, 04:25 PM

Dear Clive,

A warm welcome to you! I look forward to seeing your work and your thoughts on line. Although my oldest is only 13, I most definitely see what's in store!

Clive Fullagar · 11-12-2002, 04:43 PM

Here is the portrait. It is in oil and measures 31" x 22". I have posted details and the source photograph in the Critiques Section.

Leslie Ficcaglia · 11-12-2002, 05:15 PM

Welcome, Clive! I love the portrait and your style, particularly your use of light. The conscious symbolism is interesting as well. I too said "Hello" here with a portrait of my son, who was about eleven in the reference photo I worked from but is now almost thirty. Happy fathering: the best is yet to come.

Looking forward to seeing more of your work.
Leslie

Josef Sy · 11-12-2002, 06:18 PM

Welcome Clive, Very nice painting. I also joined recently. I hope to see you post more of your works.

Sergio Ostroverhy · 03-24-2003, 02:42 PM

The luminosity of that piece is absolutely fascinating.