One of my first oils

[MurrayG]

Hi folks. Those that maybe knew me from Wetcanvas may remember this one. Its one of my first oils using light glazes rather than heavier brush etc. From a tiny old colour photo of the mother of a family. This photo is through glass and colours a bit off but hey.
Just thought it fun to remember what I did before pastels took over. I have to say that I see many mistakes and lots of amateurism, but I guess that's where I was.....
About 30x25cm on primed paper. Using a Zorn-ish palette not obvious in the photo.

 

[ntl]

Beautifully rendered. This piece shows character, a lot of experience. It looks like she has experienced sadness, grief. This is a masterpiece.

 

[MurrayG]

Beautifully rendered. This piece shows character, a lot of experience. It looks like she has experienced sadness, grief. This is a masterpiece.

Oh. Such a compliment. Thank you. Yes, I believe she has a difficult life. But in later years she was the family "wisdom". I did a repeat painting that came out differently. Each had their qualities. I still do the odd oil depending on the subject. Thanks again, much appreciated.

 

[Artyczar]

Really well done! For your first, I would never know. It's looks mature to me. Good work!

 

[IronPawn]

Nice work Murray, specially if one of your first... I remember mine, they were not even close to your work; keep on going!

Zoran

 

[MurrayG]

Thanks Zoran and Ayin, appreciated.

 

[snoball]

Excellent! It does show character. So well done.

 

[Grapes]

Murray, wow! This is amazing ! Lots of talent here! How did I miss this post!
Did you post the repeat painting somewhere here?

 

[PaintBoss]

You captured the real person, not the “smile for the camera” photo ready face. I know from experience that it’s hard working from small, usually blurry photos. The colouring, the mood, frank look reminds me of Rembrandt. He had a lovely way of being sensitive with a darker palette and showing the faces of real life. He painted his subject’s careworn faces. Which is beautiful in it’s own way.

 

[MurrayG]

Murray, wow! This is amazing ! Lots of talent here! How did I miss this post!
Did you post the repeat painting somewhere here?

Thank you so much grapes. I do like oils, I just need to be more organised for the time it takes me, I also need to consider the smell of the drying off oils/turps re others, not an issue for me though. I don't think I posted it but I may have a photo... Will check.
Thanks again.

 

[MurrayG]

You captured the real person, not the “smile for the camera” photo ready face.

Thank you paintboss for this great compliment.

 

[Donna T]

This is so good, Murray, full of character and a thoughtful mood. I’ll bet your thin, glazing technique was helpful when you started with pastels.