A Sensitive Portrait Commission and a Privilege to Paint
When I was approached to paint this, I was a bit apprehensive. It all depended on the quality of the photographs that I could work with. The father had recently passed away before his granddaughter was born. The family were grieving for the loss of their husband, father and grandfather. I was asked to bring him from spirit to hold his baby granddaughter that he had never met.
I will admit now that it brought tears to my eyes as the story was told. It was a wonderful thing for his daughter to want to have, for her mother, his wife, and I hoped and prayed that I could do this commission justice.
Working from photographs is not easy, especially when the lighting casts tinges and awkward shadows. I also needed to work out a composition to bring them together in a meaningful way. I think I got it right when she saw the painting. For me, that meant far more than the monetary value of the commission.
I enjoy painting commissions; loved people, loved pets, even loved homes, and the reasons behind the commissions are always special. I remember them all, and this one will bring back especially tender memories. This gentleman was with me for a few months while I painted him in layers in oils. May he rest in peace. I think I did him justice, and my thanks to the lovely family for their kind permission for me to publish this.