Rebecca

"Rebecca," Oil on Panel, 12x9"

I managed to do one more portrait before the end of the year.  It's amazing how motivating it is to have the kids at home...can't wait to sneak out to the studio!  This is my wonderful sister-in-law.

Helena at Fourteen

"Helena at Fourteen," oil on panel, 14x11"

This may be the last portrait I'm able to complete before the holidays. It has been a fun month of doing portrait. Getting a likeness is a challenge -- plus the eternal challenge of making it look interesting from an artistic perspective. This is my gorgeous niece. I loved painting her golden skin tones - so different from my own kids' fish belly paleness!

Reluctant Model

"Reluctant Model," Oil on Panel, 20x16"

Given how cute the last portrait of my son was, I felt compelled to show a more representative image.  He's not always thrilled when I want him to model for me.

Stunner

"Stunner," Oil on Board, 8x8"

I had so many complaints from family members about the last portrait I did of my daughter that I thought I'd give it another go.  This is just a little study.  I worry that my brushwork is getting too tight - losing the movement and spontaneity of my earlier work.

Young Skeptic

"Young Skeptic," Oil on Board, 12x9"

The latest in my month of family portraits - my son, Teddy.  I may go back and tweak some of the colors, but I like the expression.  He insisted that I put in his braces.

Queen of Hearts

"Queen of Hearts," Oil on Board, 20x16"

Here's installment #2 in my month of family portraits.  I found this dress at Goodwill during the Halloween season and had to paint my daughter in it. I like how it feels like an old-style royal portrait, but the expression is all her own.