Wednesday, December 30, 2009

Blue-eyed Blonde 5x7


I painted this lovely lady for the portrait challenge on Karin Jurick's Different Strokes From Different Folks.  I had fun with this -  wondering about her, and feeling like we had a connection since she was painting my portrait at the same time.  This is only the second portrait I've ever painted.  I got that panicky feeling before I started like I used to get every summer when I was little, thinking I'd forgotten how to swim. I'd cling to the side of the neighbor's pool, skinning my fingers and toes on the concrete sides, trying to get up the nerve to let go and just swim.  I stared at this lady for days, wondering what would happen if I started to paint this, and realized I had no skill at all - and what in the world was I doing playing around with oil paints and brushes?! So, again, as the deadline quickly approached, I let go, and just started painting.  I still have a lot to learn, but I think if I get started on another painting right away, I won't get that panicky feeling, and I'll be able to paint without the skinned up fingers and toes! (so to speak).  I hope she likes it!

10 comments:

  1. I think it's beautiful! I can relate to how you felt! I was there too LOL :O) Beautiful Leann, really, you did a marvelous job!!!

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  2. Beautiful job with the portrait, Leann.

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  3. Oh i do like it! Thank you Leann! You did a wonderful job. Happy New Year! and Keep painting!

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  4. Nice work, Leann. Lovely portrait of lovely Marian!
    Liz

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  5. Wonderful portrait, congratulations, Leann

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  6. Really great portrait, Leann! I had the same feelings you did before starting, but what a great experience it was !!!!!

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  7. Very nice, Leann. Portraits are a challenge, indeed...but you did good!!! Karin's DSFDF challenges are a lot of fun..your city rooftops was exceptional.

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  8. Hello Leann,
    I also know about the panicky feeling you described. But finally everything will be good. Very nice work you did!

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  9. Thank you all for your words of encouragement! I've enjoyed seeing everyone's interpretation of the photo they received.
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    Marian - I would love to exchange our portraits!
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    Teresa, Claire, and Nicole, It's good to know I'm not alone with the fear of a total mess, at least starting out...and that hopefully that will get better!

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  10. LeAnn, I think you did the portrait great. I understand your every fear and doubt, I did the same. My model's photo was with me everywhere, I hoped I will get used to it and the portrait will turn out better... well, sort of. The only thing I am sure - I will never post his photo near his portrait:-)). Good luck with painting, it is such pleasure to do!

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