Imogene - FAA Portrait #1 - 40X50cm oil primed canvas - 2018
"Facing the Darkness" was inspired by the looming darkness that surrounds a person knowing that a loved one is on the brink of death. It is a darkness that is out of your control and is always there. However, it is up to you whether you curl up in a ball and prematurely morn over the pending loss of a loved one with a terminal illness or stand up tall and gaze right into the darkness. The paradox is that once one has discovered that they are powerless over death, they become stronger and more determined than ever before knowing that every moment is precious
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This piece was painted from life between July 3rd and July 13th. I worked on an oil primed canvas using the sight size method taught at the Florence Academy of Art. My lovely model, Imogene, is from England and has completed her first year at the Academy. Between painting session and during breaks, I got to connect with her about the school. She gave me lots of helpful tips for applying myself this coming year.