Mrs. D.

Denise Hall · 12-23-2004, 12:12 AM

I haven't posted here in a long time - but have been painting very steadily. Hopefully I will be getting a great digital camera very soon and the next time I post - the pictures will be sharper. I do need some help finishing this small 11x14 head study of a special lady. Please don't be too harsh concerning the photography - I know it's a little textural for some reason.

The original photo I worked from will have to come tomorrow from a scan -

Thanks anyone!

Denise

Julie Deane · 12-23-2004, 10:07 AM

Hi Denise -

Nice expression, and the eyes glow. The neck bothers me, though. Is there any way you can minimize the lighting so that elongated fleshy portion of the neck is not spotlighted? Your sitter will appreciate it.

Elizabeth Schott · 12-23-2004, 10:25 AM

Denise, is Santa bringing you a new camera?

Just from what you can see, I think Julie is right, even though your reference may show the light on the neck as you have it, maybe a bit softer would not accentuate it so much.

I think this is one of your best pieces!

Heidi Maiers · 12-23-2004, 01:58 PM

A very lively painting Denise,
The blues and purples seem appropriate for this sophisticated lady. I find for the most part that older women do not want to have their portrait painted or sculpted (unless it is from a photo of when they were young), so this painting is unique in that regard.
Nicely done I think. I'm sure the painting pros will be able to offer some good suggestions to make it even more wonderful.

Mike McCarty · 12-23-2004, 03:07 PM

Denise,

I hope you don't mind me taking a digital shot at your lovely painting. I had a little time and I love the puzzle. As Heidi pointed out, it's a treat to see the more mature subjects.

I tried (crudely) to de-emphasize the neck along with taking some of the highlights away from the top of her right eye. I also added a bit of a dark shadow in the corner of her mouth on her right side.

Denise Hall · 12-23-2004, 03:35 PM

Merry Christmas - it's almost here!

Thank you so much for all the advice and .......you guys have it "spot on" with the neck being too light. I have to admit - I e'd this to Marvin a week or so ago - just to show him what I've been up to after not talking for quite awhile and he had just enough time to write back and say, "darken the neck". I have not done it yet.

Mike - thank you for playing with it in photoshop - and yes, that right eye highlight was keyed too light as well - I see it now. Hopefully I can take a photo of it in a few weeks showing the improvements.

Thanks again, Heidi, Julie, Beth and Mike for taking the time and patience to reply. I really appreciate it!

Denise