The reason the image below is called "After Zach" is even though it's a painting for which Zach is the 'model' (actualy, a photo), it is not an exact likeness. Just as an artist will sign a copy of a master with a signature that acknowledges the fact that it's a copy, and not the original, and in doing so sign it "After Monet, John Jones" - or whatever the artist's name is. This is a 'copy' of Zach - or a piece 'inspired' by Zach, but not Zach. That said, people who know Zach recognize him in this painting. I have that on good authority.
This is an oil on canvas, toned with acrylic. I chose to use a heavy texture in the tone, instead of just a smooth,neutral tone.
The painting is spare. I am still learning how to use shape and texture to define a subject. As you see this, the paint is still wet. I haven't even signed it yet.
Sunday, July 13, 2008
After Zach
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12 comments:
Hey Lou-this is really quite good. I like that your using line to define light and tone and minimizing detail. Your brush stroke texture background really adds a great deal of energy to the work. I really like that.
Did you use a wide brush or pallete knife to do that? The little detail of his eyes looking off to the left is really nice.
Very contemporary and edgy. Good for you!
vikki
I have to agree with the redchair. I LOVE the detail in his eyes looking off to the side with the angle of his face. His eyes immediately drew me in. The heavy texture and strokes were a nice surprise. It is quite different from your other pieces, but I really like what you've done!
again the eyes have it. I love the way you've captured the light in them. Also really impressed with the texture of his hair.
Well done Lou!
Very good. Abstract and modern and the eye detail shows some emotion. I've never painted with oil but would like to someday :-)
Wow. I know little about art, but I know what is striking, and this is. Very nice!
You may think you are learning on your shape & texture, but lemme tell you, Lou - YOU have eyes down pat! His eyes are so filled with longing, sadness, need..and the way you have them truly draws you in and almost makes me blush. I feel exposed having them look not at but through me. He's a very meditative son, isn't he? The striking thing after the eyes for me is the sharp feature of his chin. It's so set and stubborn, almost daring you to test his resolve. How off was I this time?
great eyes! I can almost feel his mood.
Did no one mention the hair?
Nice!
Deceptively simple, but a really nice piece of work. Great emotion in the face. Excellent brush work, which keeps the piece moving with interest. Portraits don't have to look like the person, but rather can show how you feel about the person. Check out Lucian Freud's portrait of Queen Elizabeth II. Check out Modigliani portraits. You have a nice sense of proportion, you should try half a torso. Quite simple a real nice painting.
wow Lou I'm impressed you are one talented guy. I wish I had artistic talent.
That's lovely, Lou! I'm thinking about doing some sort of art class myself to help with my photography. You gave me that idea. :)
good job.
i like his eyes and his hair. the eyes i noticed very first!! :) they are very life-like. GREAT job!!
xoxoxo
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