Sunday, April 17, 2016

Little Miss Sunshine

Little Miss Sunshine 10 x 8 acrylic on gessoboard  NFS
A warm and wonderful friend shared some photos of her lovely little great-grandaughter. One particular photo really caught my eye. I loved the light on her face, the expressive hand gesture, and her dazzling blue eyes. She was a treat to paint and it was such fun to send it as a surprise to my friend!

 Light on her face to be the focus, so cropped and simplified composition and moved hand a little closer.
Softened contrast from what appeared in photo, added more half-tones.
 Background darkened, and to keep focus on the face, clothing was painted loosely.
Hair and features are further refined, injecting color into the shadow areas.
Lightened the background a bit and added finishing details. 
Little Miss Sunshine - 10x8 acrylic on gessoboard.

4 comments:

  1. You are a natural at portraits, Helene. This is terrific.You obviously have the gift of having an eye for the smallest measurement because that's what is needed with portraiture. The hair is amazing. It looks so real...and the mouth looks like it is moving. You friend will be thrilled to bits - what a beautiful gift.

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    1. What a lovely comment, Julie. I'm very fortunate to have such a generous friend -- and so accomplished, too. I loved your last post, "Blue Shutters."

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  2. This turned out just fabulous! Love the light on her face and hand! And what a wonderful gift!

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  3. As the grateful recipient of this gift, I can only say that it is beyond exquisite! The photo does not do it justice! I stared at it for weeks. Helene, you captured the heart of this adorable child. I love it!

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