Week 62

The enormous hardwood panel loomed before us - our easel now getting closer to meeting its match. I remember the first “huge” painting of the first series- a 30x30. Then it was a 36X48. Now, a 48x60. Looking at this blank canvas, I recalled how it felt to think there’s no way we’d finish in time, each time we did a new size.

This image was conceptualized, sketched and the photo shoot was taken in both day and night. Our model wears an antique nightgown that slid off her petite shoulders. My grandmothers’ antique Spanish hairpin stands resolute in her dark satin hair. It was a treat to work with her- she stood on rocks in the water, bent, held up a very heavy lantern and looked forlorn for us.

In her eyes you can see the fierceness of woman but also the softness, desire and hope. The cascading fabric and her skin reflect the warmth she feels inside. Who is she waiting for? Her expression is resolute. How many nights does she come and wait?

The moment was perfect. The feeling, exactly what I’d hoped for. We pushed ourselves in concept and size. This is my ideal of a fully original painting. I’m so excited about that; can’t wait to see at the end of this year what we have created.

“Vigil”

48x60 | Oil on Panel