Saturday, December 7, 2013

Charleen

Diane Mannion, Charleen, 8x10" oil on linen

Portrait Practice

Charleen is receptionist and office staff member at Ringling Englewood Art Center.  Her delightful personality greets folks at the door... lovely young woman.  She posed during the painting class I was teaching, unfortunately only for two twenty minute sessions, wish it had been a few hours longer.  This had to be finished from iPhone photo reference later.

Portraits are the most difficult subject for any artist to tackle.  Not much room for errors, everything has to be precise to capture a good likeness.  If it's off, it's really jumps out.  Landscapes and still lifes are much more forgiving.  But great skill sharpening practice for any artist!  

5 comments:

Wendy Barrett said...

Hi Diane, just catching up on your blog. You really are amazing at everything you turn your hand to! This is such a beautiful portrait, so gentle and subtle.
I love all your work - you are one of my favourite painters!

Wendy Barrett said...

P.S. It's a pity you are so far away, I would love to take lessons with you.

Diane Mannion said...

Wendy, thank you so much. And I'm flattered that you would like to take lessons with me. I have a lot of technical information on my blog, maybe that would help. New Year's resolution is to organize painting notes into an ebook or Blurb book. Your work is terrific though!

Wendy Barrett said...

Thanks Diane, I'd definitely be interested in buying a copy when you get your book out there. Good luck with it!

Diane Mannion said...

A book is on the top of my New Year's Things TO DO list, Wendy. Has been for a few years... sigh.