Another of Nan

[Alexandra Tyng]

Originally Posted by Carlos Ygoa

"Indian Summer" by Andrew Wyeth.

Ahh! Thanks for the title. I was too lazy to look it up.

Thanks so much. I'm feeling totally honored and a little embarrassed being compared even slightly to Velasquez, whom I consider to be one of the most brilliant artists of all time. You are so generous in your praise of this very modest effort. I did have fun with it, though, and tried some things I hadn't tried before.

[Tom Edgerton]

This is just fabulous.

Juicy paint (I'm envious); bold application; rich, clean color; GREAT light; really palpable feeling of sculptural mass and weight, terrific characterization. What more could one want?

Alex, I don't know if your experience corresponds to mine, but when I paint someone for a second or third time, the characterization is so much more insightful and subtle, as here. Great that you explored your subject again this way, to see what new things would be revealed. Obviously time well spent.

Best--TE

[Alexandra Tyng]

Thanks so much, Tom!

Originally Posted by Tom Edgerton

when I paint someone for a second or third time, the characterization is so much more insightful and subtle. . . .

Yes, I do feel that way. I've actually attempted to paint her several more times before the one I posted here with the yellow flowers in the vase. The first time, I felt I hardly scratched the surface. It looked like her, but was not her. Every time I tried, I was able to say more.

A friend (an artist) asked me to paint portraits of her children at three different ages. The same thing happened. (I couldn't believe she wanted me back, but it was a fascinating experience to be able to do this.)

[Thomasin Dewhurst]

Alexandra - this is just wonderful! Your pools of shadow and light that have the substance of flesh. My eyes feel so well-fed looking at it! And I so admire your confidence and unquestioning drive, and your honesty.

May I ask this mundane question: did you use a photo or have your friend sit? I presume the latter ...

[Alexandra Tyng]

Thomasin, thank you on all counts!

Originally Posted by Thomasin Dewhurst

May I ask this mundane question: did you use a photo or have your friend sit?

I used several photos. I wish I could get her to sit for me--she's a big advocate of painting and drawing from life--but I can't get her to sit still. This past summer I even tried scheduling a time, but when I got there she was busy with something else! I'm still hoping, though.

[Marina Dieul]

Alex,
very nice light and shadows. I love the close up, I could watch them for hours!

[Janel Maples]

Alex,

I echo what everyone else is saying but I'd like to add a question.

Do you ever (or perhaps I should ask would you ever) take photos of your work
in progress in steps from start to finish? Your paint strokes look so fresh that I am curious what is underneath, if anything.

I also really enjoy the close ups.