Danette Unveiled
 

Sorry that I have not been around the forum much lately; I've been busy, but busy is good! I've been lurking, though.

This is a painting of a friend, Danette, the first time that I saw her without a scarf (or security blanket, as she calls it!) on her head. A few months ago she finished chemo therapy and I have been happy to see her back to her bubbly, outgoing self! (This is continued in my blog, here )

I spent some time with her at the Cancer Center where she still receives Vitamin C treatments in preparation for this, taking pictures and color notes in different light and talking with her. My vision of the painting unfolded as I gathered a better idea of what she wanted to express about her journey. The background is bright (though, depending on my angle relative to the computer screen it sometimes appears too bright) as a reflection of her optimism; Danette does not want the sad, devastating side of cancer coming through and this painting is a gift to her.

Pastel on Wallis 22" x 16"

Hi Lacey,

I get a strong feeling of Danette from your portrait. You've really captured her spirit, I think. I'm especially drawn to the brilliance of her eyes, the softness of her hair, and the area around the bottom of her nose and her mouth. There are some really nice lights in her forehead, too. She seems to be saying, "I'm more myself than ever!"

Thanks Alex! Danette is very optimistic, and last I saw her she was definately feeling good. I am trying to convince her that she is absolutely stunning without her scarf or long hair.

I'm now convinced that I ought to make some changes to the sweater, so stay tuned! I will update the picture above in the next couple of days.