Steve

Jimmie Arroyo · 09-06-2005, 10:40 PM

I really like the closeups, on my screen, the contrast and detail is better than the full picture. Would you mind posting a full one after adjustments, at your convenience of course?

Alexandra Tyng · 09-07-2005, 09:45 AM

Jimmie,

Sorry you had a hard time seeing the full portrait. It looks okay on my screen, so I'm not exactly sure how to tweak it, but I have heightened the contrast a bit. One problem is that I am working from slides (taken by a pro) rather than a digital camera, and even if I scan them at a high resolution, there is a limit to the clarity. I'm also posting some semi-closeups of different areas which I hope will help.

Kimberly Dow · 09-07-2005, 09:58 AM

This is just beautiful and his personality shines through - congratulations! What a treasure.

Alexandra Tyng · 09-08-2005, 09:30 AM

Personality, hmmm. . . . I always wonder "am I getting it?" as I am painting. Sometimes I find myself smiling idiotically. I'm not sure if I am smiling at myself or at the person I'm painting. Maybe I'm trying to elicit a response from the person. What if I caught myself doing this as I was demonstrating in front of people? Anyway, I always know when I've "got it" when the person looks back at me. There's this moment of recognition: Yeah, that's Steve! So I'm glad you see the personality in it.

Anyway, thank you, Kim! It means a lot to me.

Janet Kimantas · 09-13-2005, 08:03 PM

I'm sure that you don't need any more congratulations on this lovely painting. Two things only: Your Steve looks like the guy on the corner who organizes the street-hockey games for all the little kids. Also, you have so inspired us. Your wonderful paintings and eloquent lessons, so generously shared...I want to start painting people in their legitimate environment, too. *I think I can I think I can I think I can*

Thanks, Janet

Alexandra Tyng · 09-13-2005, 10:53 PM

Thank you so much, Janet! I'm honored that you would take the time to write such complimentary things about the portrait. It's always nice to hear. Yes, my husband is that kind of guy, even though street hockey isn't one of his skills, so I'm glad it came across.

I've been watching your progress in your paintings of your son's girlfriend. She has a fascinating face; I can see why you are driven to capture her likeness. The last portrait you did (or maybe you are still working on it) is lovely.