W/C portrait of my son Jake

[Peggi Habets]

This is my 13-year-old son Jake. My objective was to focus on his quiet, reflective nature as well as his boyish personality. Any comments and critiques are always welcome.

This painting is 14 x 16" watercolor. It was painted from several photographs after a small pencil sketch was done for values.

[Patricia Joyce]

Peggy,
What a strong piece! You have really captured personality and emotion. Love your use of colors, it is so unusual and fun for a child's portrait.

[Carol Norton]

I agree with Patty. This is a WONDERFUL portrait! I love it!

[Mary Cupp]

You have been able to capture a very fleeting expression. Was it done from life or a photo? If a photo, you have overcome the problem of their static quality. Your painting seems fresh and alive.

Was their any particular reason for your choice of colors?

[Peggi Habets]

Carol and Patricia,
Thank you for the comment.

Mary,
Thank you. Jake's portrait was done from several photos but I have been painting and drawing him since he was little. The colors evolved as the painting progressed. I had done a full-sized value sketch prior to starting the painting and tried to keep the values the same. The orange color came from his hair and the chair and the blue was used to complement the orange.

[Judson Eneas]

This is a lovely portrait, excellent use of color. Have you ever tried oil painting?

[Peggi Habets]

Thank you Judson. Yes, I started with oils last year and like them very much. I prefer watercolors but I think its because I feel more confident with them.