Hi Flladi,
I like the composition very much and also the colors.

I think that you should lower the value of the eyelid to the right (her left eye), it seems to come forward in stead of , gradually, be turning into the shadow area.

Dear Filadi,

Lovely portrait, lovely subject! I think you've received some excellent feedback, and I don't know if I can add anything at all. Other than a little fill light to lighten the shadow's value on the face on our right side, I think the painting is really terrific.

Cash in on her gaiety, and nothing else
 

Indeed, I second Richard's notion on the magic of this painting.
This is a beautiful girl, at the height of her youthful spring. The painting does not bring out the maximum potential of that youth. So to be more precise with Richard's comments, my gripe on the magic is with the eyebrows, and the treatment to the bosoms.

The former brings out a subtle 'evilness' in her...with that smile it has that smirk that sends a cold message. The bosom, at the same time, also brings about a suggestive message.The shade that is shown on the photograph does just that, and it's a good direction.

I believe toning it down both areas by softening the former, and by greying the bosom area - much like what you see in the photo - will stub that sexual innuendo, while at the same time serving avantage of bringing out the necklace as well as redirecting attention to her face.

With these points i can see a magnificent work of art true to the beautiful model.

Friends,
I apologize for not getting back to the forum a little earlier , but with Christmas and everything else, little time is left for browsing the net...

I truly appreciate everyone's comments and time they took to write and offer help. I feel very humbled and privileged! Thank you Bonfim, Richard, Allan, Chris, and Marcus, as well as Alexandra, Carol, and Marvin,and please excuse my belated reply to your comments!

I realize this this painting before is completed will be over worked, so I will try to correct the obvious flaws that have bothered me before I received everyone's critiquing (which pointed at and emphasized exactly those flaws and more)

I won't be wasting anyone's time with words, now!
I will get back to work keeping, in mind the valuable information gathered here and will post the new image as soon as it is ready

Once again, THANK YOU ALL very much!

Happy Holidays!

Flladi

Hi Flladi,

I fully agree with Marvin's comments about toning down the brightness to the right of her head a bit and gently pulling some bg color into the reflected lights. Other than that - I wouldn't touch a thing. Your choice of colors, the expression on her face and your painterly style reminds me very much of Frans Hals whose work I greatly admire.

Happy New Year,
Maryam

Maryam,
I really appreciate your input!
I agree as well with what you pointed out. Marvin is correct again (after all he is my teacher). I am working on those specific areas and should be ready (hopefully) soon!
Frans Hals! Wow! Thank you for even mentioning him here, and he is one of my favorites too.

Happy New Year!