Tim, I think I remember you. Were you with some other people??? How is it going?

The Cropsey grant was through the National Academy of Design, where I paint each day.

Great news David! Somehow I am not at all surprised. ;)

Wow.

What a moving portrait.

The execution is exquisite, but the composition and expression is so engaging! I just can't stop looking at it! Best of luck with the competition!

Linda

You don't need luck, you have talent. Just to be a finalist is an honor in that competition.

Beautiful, sensitive original portrayal, and I DO wish you the best of luck!

Sincerely,

Just found that the links I posted earlier, weren't working so I fixed them.http://davidkassan.com/italy and http://dubscience.com/italy

Sorry 'bout that

David

Dave, this is a beautiful and moving portrait, really extraordinary.

Do you like using a wood ground in general? Is this gesso over wood?

This was on a wood panel I bought at soho art materials on grand street. They are great. I gessoed it 3 times, so its pretty smooth. However this painting is over four other paintings that were each sanded smooth. I think I sanded more on this panel than painted. So I guess in a way it might be considered an oil ground. :)

Here is a close up, while in progress.
 

I posted awhile back, but it must not have taken. As you know I like this one very much, and I like all of your work I have seen. This painting has a mood and feeling about it.

A quick question, was your notebook done with charcoal and fixative?

The sketchbook from Italy? I used a mech. pencil. so I could alway refill it and it was always sharp. haven't fixed them. I'm going to have to soon cause they keep on getting lighter.