I need critique

[Chris Saper]

Dear Steven,

I am glad you posted the detail to your painting, as there is so much subtlety I could not see in the original image. We are all at the mercy of our computer monitors!

The detail shows your very strong drawing skills and your ability to model three dimensional forms.

I share the thoughts with regard to getting the white shirt under control; you have a very lovely analogous color scheme going on, which imparts a restful sense to the portrait. Because the skin tones and background are very close in color, and certainly in temperature, I think that adding a little temperature relief might add additional interest. Some cool notes in the shirt may work...and if your light source is cool you could place relatively cooler notes in the lit areas of skin, clothing and chair. (Opposite if your light source is warm.) Placing some reflected skin color notes in ares of the shirt facing the skin will further integrate the color overall.

I think your figure is well placed in the painting, and rather than think of cropping the bottom, you could simply soften the edges of the arm of the chair.

I am sure your subject must be pleased with his portrait.

Best wishes to you,
Chris