[Magdalena Castaneda]

Good evening everyone,

First, I'd like to thank Steven for his great support, and his posting of my work on the Forum.

I was going to re-introduce myself to all of you, but didn't want to shorten Darla's thread. My last post was almost a year ago, and at that time was going to post images, but one, while I was learning about digital cameras, etc., "stuff" came up. I remember Mike, and Elizabeth, and of course Steven were very helpful. Anyway, I'm happy to be back and painting once again.

This is a 16"x 20" head and shoulders in oil of a gentleman. While it is completed, I wanted to share it with all of you, and I am open to critique as I know the value of them.

I am presently in Portland, OR, and have been here for two and a half years. For almost two years I have not painted, but have now rented a studio and am painting once again.

I would like to share with all of you how important it has been for me in these last two years to be able to follow your teachings (Pros), and your learnings (Beginners), for they have been mine also. Please pardon me, Cynthia and members, if I am speaking all of this in an inappropriate location. I am so very glad to finally be able to share with all of you, and to tell you all how you will never know how you have kept my spirits up during one of the most challenging times of my life. Thank you all from the bottom of my heart.

It is an honor for me to finally be able to share with all of you some of my learnings too.

With Affection,

Magdalena Casta