Giving thanks for the Curls

Private Commission for Bill & Cathy Perry, approx. 10x11", 2010

It's been a while since I was asked to do a child's portrait. Actually, it's been less than a year but it seems much longer than than. My wife and I were fortunate enough to meet a nice couple at one of our many arts & crafts events this year who asked me to do this portrait for them. They made life so easy for me; they told me EXACTLY what they wanted, gave me a crystal clear photo in the exact composition that they desired and told me to go from there. Of course the main feature is this tot's wild curls! I have never had to do such fine lines in a graphite portrait before. To get the bulk of the curls completed I used various erasers, some which were custom cut for fine detail work. The last step, after darkening the background, was to use an X-Acto knife to scrape away individual curls floating around the child's head. This was a great technique and I am absolutely pleased with this portrait. I just love the innocent look on the boys face! Thanks to the Perry's for lending me this opportunity!!!! - Jared

Hail the Hair!!

Conan, acrylic on board, 24x24", 2010 $1200

I am back! It's been a busy couple of months. I have been in talks with Upper Deck to do a limited edition series of the American Presidents for early 2011, talked with various clients for commission pieces, was laid off from one of the funnest jobs I've ever had, and have been vending at several arts and craft festivals around Alabama. In addition to all of that, I have started up the celeb portraiture for the Chop House restaurant while my schedule briefly permits. I like to hear folks talk about these portraits after they have eaten at the Chop House. Moreover, I like it when I sell them!! The more the merrier, right? I was happy to add Conan to the mix. We were excited to see his arrival back to the tube earlier this month. I thought that I could have done just the hair and still have it a recognizable piece but a little more was added for good measure. Let me know what you think and stay tuned for more updates, more art, and more news very soon! Happy Thanksgiving too. - Jared