Cody Nicole Greene

[Rob Sullivan]

Thank you, Mary. It's true, this is an emotionally wrenching piece based solely on the subject alone.

It was difficult for me to be satisfied with the final. I made some major last minute changes because of this. The piece needed to challenge the powerful sadness of the circumstance and not be subject to it. I didn't want it to be a memorial, so much as a happy representation of life.

I think I got it, but it's hard to say. Even the family won't be able to say so without bias. It was a tough one... but I'd do it again in a minute if it would bring happiness to someone who lost a loved one.

[Elizabeth Schott]

Rob, I think you did a lovely job with this sensitive painting.

A lot of people do not like to do posthumous portraits yet I have found them to be very rewarding. It is true the reference can make it much harder, but the obvious joy to others is so incredible, especially with work like you have done here.

I think you caught a personality that will live on forever. It will be treasurer for all who loved her.

[Rob Sullivan]

I am grateful for your kind words, Elizabeth.

It has been rewarding already - and her family hasn't even seen it yet! Yes, I surely would do this again.

[Sharon Knettell]

Your portrait has just the right touch of sadness in the otherwise joyful face of this lovely young girl. This only underscores the horror of her death. Beautiful portrait.

Welcome to the Forum.

[Linda Brandon]

Rob, you've created a sensitive, wonderful painting. Posthumous paintings are always tough to do and you should be very proud of this one.

I've also painted a murdered teenager, many years ago. I remember that it occured to me at the time that I felt as if I were performing CPR, but clumsily and unsuccessfully.

Your painting will be treasured for years.

[Rob Sullivan]

Sharon and Linda - I appreciate both of your wonderful comments.

You have all made me feel very welcome, and I thank you. You've also given me the impetus to continue in the field of portraiture with more confidence. I hope to post work of like quality in the near future.

[Jimmie Arroyo]

Rob,
Very touching and beautiful. I'm sure it'll bring tears every time they see it.

[Jeanine Jackson]

It appears you have painted an angel with divine inspiration adding to your abundant talent!

[Rob Sullivan]

Just this past Saturday (May 15), I presented the portrait to Cody's family. Needless to say, it was an emotional moment; bittersweet, in truth.

The Jameson Gallery provided me with a great framing job, and they allowed me to unveil the painting there. In fact, they removed a painting so the piece could be viewed in proper lighting on the gallery wall.

I had made the decision a while back to not charge for this painting. Whether or not this seems foolish is beside the point. The only reason I bring this up is because the client insisted on paying for the framing, and Michael - the owner of Jameson Gallery - surprised me at the unveiling. As Cody's stepfather made to settle up for the framing, Michael looked at him and said, "Put away your checkbook; I want you to have this."

It was a wonderful thing.

p.s. - Thanks Jean & Jeanine for your lovely words....