Friday, August 17, 2012

"Abby" by Taryn Day

oil on board
6"x6"

Boy, this was difficult. Abby, you have got a very subtle face- even for a child. I think most people's faces become more craggy and defined as they get older, and easier to paint.

This is my niece. I'm not sure my sister will like it, as she seems so serious. I guess seriousness is the signature style of my portraits, and the reason I'm not interested in commissions anymore- parents usually want to see their children smiling (this is not a commission). Once I had some counseling from SCORE (small business mentoring) and was advised to paint children doing playful things, like peeking out from behind a tree or playing with a garden hose. Much as I appreciated the free counseling, I would hate to have to paint such things.

4 comments:

Claire Beadon Carnell said...

Your intuition is impeccable, Taryn. Continue to paint what you find interesting, not what others think you should paint.

Bertie Brown said...

Wonderful, Taryn! I love all the hues and values that give the work light and life....

Debra Kreiger said...

Very nice Taryn! Paint what feels right!

Ron Donoughe said...

Excellent. Love the sincere feeling in the eyes