OK, Here's Mine!
I wanted to share the process of this particular commission with all of you, because I think it's rare.
I received this job through this site (thanks SOG). The client was presenting a surprise birthday gift for his wife. Instead of the cut and dry, "what's the next step" (although that was one question) he proceeded to tell me all about his family, and what they are like. Well, after the gift was presented, Shaun (woman) was very hesitant about being included in a painting. We started an email correspondence that lasted for 6 months, prior to my arrival in Atlanta. She also sent me her favorite photos, clueing me in on what she liked about each of them. I was left with a pretty complete sense of who they are, before we even met. I can't tell you what a difference that made as opposed to just showing up and shooting. I, in turn, arrived armed with books of my favorite artists, Cassatt among them. She immediately responded to her work, noting that the emotional connection is what she is after. I photographed them everywhere, indoors and out. The bed was one of many locations that turned out to be the right one, since they did spend time each morning there.
I let them be, did not pose them at all. The beauty of Beau, the love his mother feels for him is evident in all the photos. This pose, (a combo of 3 poses) summarized it all. A year passed from first contact, to the final delivery. Although I had my usual struggles, to date, this is my most fulfilling painting.
30" x 40" Oil on Linen.
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