Inspired by Green Eyes/Happy 1st Wedding Anniversary
Paige approached me in December about doing a commission for her wedding anniversary. For inspiration she sent me photos of Romero Britto’s classic Green Eyes painting. I was not familiar with Romero’s work but upon researching, he creates vibrant colourful illustrative portraits with incredible patterns throughout the facial features, clothing and backgrounds. What captivated me with Green Eyes was the two tone affect he used in the eyes and the way the face sits against the news paper background.
After a couple quick sketch sessions I drafted up a drawing based on a photo of the two of them together. I had another sketch session focused solely on sourcing different patterns to add into the background and hair. Colour-wise, everything was on the table with the exception of pink. Paige and I both loved the news paper background and she provided me with a news paper article written about Jeff and his newly launched business, Simply Benefits. I made several copies and strategically cut and arranged them around the face.
My favourite part of this piece is the necklace I added on Paige. Originally, I had the T-shirt design on her but as I was doing the outline I came up with the idea to add the tortoise shell fringe necklace. Influenced by the beautiful necklaces I see for sale at Funktional. I’m so happy I took this risk and am thrilled with how my interpretation of the tortoiseshell pattern on the rainbow shape enamel pendant turned out. When I sent Paige a progress shot prior of the background, prior to adding the paper for the faces, she told me the colours remind her of their wedding in Costa Rica. What a happy bonus!
A quick look through my portfolio and you’ll find that I typically do not do portraits, and opt for chaotic abstract backgrounds rather than the controlled patterns you’ll find in this painting. I was so thrilled to take this project on because it pushed me way out of my comfort zone. Portraits are something I admire but intimidate me — be it photography, drawing or painting. Which is funny to me because as a kid between the ages of I’d say 10 to 15, obsessed with music and fashion magazines - I spent a lot of time drawing portraits of my favourite bands, celebrities and Sailor Moon characters. I definitely lost my portrait confidence when I went through my major creative art block between 19 - 24. Occasionally I draw faces in my sketch book but rarely do I show anyone. I find the proportions and symmetry to be challenging especially for noses and mouths. I can approach a building or landscape painting no problem at all, but the laying the groundwork for a portrait feels very intimidating to me. Now that I’m on the other side of this piece, I want to sketch more portraits! I want to blend colours for skin tones and focus on highlights and contours. Each commission piece for me is a new way of branching out and levelling up. Thank you Paige for bringing me this idea and trusting me to try something new!
Mini Playlist
Whole New Mess - Angel Olsen
Ily (I love you baby) f. Emilee
Madness - Deltron 3030
Itchin’ Around - Shana Cleveland and the Sandcastles
Chemtrails over the country club - Lana Del Rey
Whole New Mess - Angel Olsen
If you’re interested in a commission of your own. Send me an email! It starts with a conversation on subject matter, be it a building, an abstract, cats or in Paige’s case, portrait. We can talk about styles you like or reference pieces I have completed in the past. We work together to make it as personal as you want, adding in special words, memories, or symbols. Once I’ve done some sketching, I draft up an email with three or four different size options and a price guide. Quotes are completely free. Once an image is agreed upon, we narrow down colour options and timeline for completion. A 25% deposit is required to get started while the balance is paid once completed. Depending on the time of year, I can usually work on three to five commissions at the same time. If this peaks your interest, send me an email with your painting ideas!
