Molly #22 - One Hundred Alla Prima Portraits of American Teenagers

 

 "Molly"

It was special to have Molly pose because her grandmother, Jane King, who is a wonderful artist, was painting along with us. Posing is not easy for teenagers, but when Molly ran from the model stand and threw up, I realized what a trooper she was. I love this type of profile, it reminds me of the wonderful Renaissance portraits.

Jack #21 - One Hundred Alla Prima Portraits of American Teenagers

                                                                               "Jack"

"In today's society, its upsetting how careless teenagers are.  However, if a teenager has passion for something, most (people) are surprised at how determined the child can be. Unfortunately, that's not the case with most teenagers... Don't be afraid to stick out from the crowd - I learned this lesson and I feel as though I am more outgoing and have many more friends."

Jack was so funny and was so much fun to paint!  He kept us laughing the whole time.  I really like the yellow background, but several of the artists working along with me objected to it.  I wanted to paint it with his red hair, and he seemed to be such a sunny personality, it just felt right (I over rode their objections).  Any thoughts on this?

Kiera #20 - One Hundred Alla Prima Portraits of American Teenagers

 

"Kiera"

"I really wish I knew what I wanted to be, but if I could be anything I wanted, I would want to be someone who goes around the country helping those who are less fortunate. I watched an episode of 20/20 about the children of the Appalachian Mountains and it changed my life. I went to West Virginia and helped those kids and if I could afford to help families like the one I helped last summer I would do that. I love seeing other people happy because that’s what makes me happy".

I was really happy with the composition of this painting, I think the shapes work well. I loved painting Kiera, she has so much spirit, and I have known her since she was a baby.  Her mom is one of my closest friends and today is her birthday. Happy Birthday Susan!