Painting larger than life

[Patt Legg]

I am posting an 18x24 oil in the beginning stages of my umber study. I read about the no-no about larger than life paintings but I love to paint larger than life for impact--but never for a commissioned portrait.This particular one is not a commission. I feel that this is for me and I can stretch the rules a bit. I will attempt to post my reference photo also. All comments welcome. I intend to drape the left shoulder as with the edge of a cape. Unfortunately, my photo had my reference photo in front of it.

Thanks,
Patt