...A Portrait for My Grandson...carbon pencil on paper, 11x15
The shadows on both faces are much darker than what the camera picked up which is why I always use a scan for prints. Even with a good camera and lens...when there is a lot of contrast, as in this drawing, the subtleties seem to get lost, and the face photographs lighter.
The drawing of Teddy's mother is still considerably darker than Teddy...which keeps her in the background and pushes Teddy's image forward. I had thought I would make her even darker yet...but as I look at it now, I think the balance is really good. (yet I'm not sure you can tell)
*I will post the portrait again once I have the scan done and color corrected...yet even then viewing it on the computer screen is a hit or miss thing. Drawing is all about the subtle shadows...and they never seem to show well here. I always think it's such a shame.
If you read my previous posts about this portrait you will recall that Teddy's mother passed away when he was just five. My mother also passed away when I was five years old and he and I have talked about this often. I wanted this portrait to signify his mother's presence in his life even though she isn't with him anymore.
I spoke with Teddy before starting this drawing...I wanted to make sure he understood the concept I was trying to convey and that it was something he would like to have. This is the first view he will have of the drawing...I hope he approves.
Teddy's opinion will be my ultimate critique.
You can see the original layout of this drawing and my previous post with additional reference photos used at the links included here.
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This was truly a drawing done from the heart. The older I get the more I realize the void in my life as a result of my mother's death at such a young age. My father remarried when I was a senior in high school...but by then I was pretty much an adult, or at least thought I was. She was a wonderful woman and the perfect influence for my two younger brothers.
I look at Teddy and my daughter...they are such a blessing. I'm so thankful to have Teddy in my life and so proud of the mother my daughter has become.
I know the photo of this drawing isn't the best...but would love to have your critique and opinion.
Sincerely,
Marsha
I look at Teddy and my daughter...they are such a blessing. I'm so thankful to have Teddy in my life and so proud of the mother my daughter has become.
I know the photo of this drawing isn't the best...but would love to have your critique and opinion.
Sincerely,
Marsha
8 comments:
Pam Douglas sent me the most heartfelt email and gave me permission to share.
"This drawing has such emotion...it brings tears to my eyes...lovely...lovely...lovely...for the past...and for the future.....where one woman began...another continues...Teddy is a blessed young man..."
Pam,
Thank you for your thoughtfulness. You were able to express what I couldn't find words for.
Marsha, this drawing is one that Teddy will always treasure. It's so meaningful and is an act of pure love on your part. It will give him comfort for the rest of his life. Even though his mother is still at his side in spirit, he will be able to see this in the physical world. Very touching.
Marsha this turned out beautifully! The love translated very well in your drawing and comp. He is going to love it!
Marsha, there is much warmth and love in this portrait. Their smiles are gorgeous! I cannot imagine that he won't be very pleased. Angela
Beautiful! I especially love the warm, soft expressions and how you rendered the boy's hair and clothing.
Marsha this is a beautiful portrait. The emotion and love have filled it with colour. I am so sure Teddy will treasure it.
Thank you everyone for your lovely compliments on this latest portrait. Teddy has seen it now and is very pleased.
I was hoping it would be as he imagined...I wasn't sure he would understand the concept, but he gets it perfectly.
Because of the time frame, I will have to mail it 'next day'. Shipping an original (framed with glass) makes me nervous. Wish I could carry in on the plane with me but I'm afraid they wont allow it.
I will update you with a new image once I have the scan done.
Hi Marsha,
Well, what can one say, a mother and her son is just about the most special relationship Teddy will ever have. She is the first woman he falls in love with and her love shapes him into the man he becomes. I love the essence between them, ethereal, how do you do that, so soft yet is present? Teddy will love his mom, for all time and will never forget the most important gift, giving because mom's are caring givers.
Your work is getting better all the time, this is a genuine work of the heart and with that God smiles down and blesses you greatly in all you do. Blessing to your daughter and to your grandson- to all--Jimmy
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