#53 Elizabeth - One Hundred Alla Prima Portraits of American Teenagers

                                                                          "Elizabeth"

(Teenagers are really concerned about) "Honestly, I think teenagers are so wrapped up in their cell phones, computers, ipods, etc. that they are not that concerned with the world they live in.  Instead, they are concerned with themselves and their world that they 'pay' attention to."  (Advice for other teens) "I would tell other teens to always have good relationships with their families, because no matter what, your family will always be there.  Other people in your lives will come and go, but your family will never leave."


Elizabeth was in my son's class in kindergarten, they went to the same school all the way through high school.  I had not seen her since she was little. When I spoke to her on the phone to schedule her sitting, I envisioned the cute little a five year old girl that I remembered, with short bangs and a big smile.  When she walked into the studio to pose,  fourteen years later, it was quite a shock to see her so tall and beautiful and all grown up!  We smiled and hugged, and I have no doubt that I must have looked very different to her too!

#52 Vincent- One Hundred Alla Prima Portraits of American Teenagers

                                                                           "Vincent"

(Some of the things that are important to me are) "Music, food and family".

Vincent was really friendly and wonderful to work with.  He is studying to be a chef.
The light on the models is pretty intense, and it can be hard on their eyes. It is easier for them to look away from the light. I notice that some of the models naturally look at me, and some don't.  Both ways can create an interesting painting. In the beginning of this project, I thought I would do each portrait with the model looking straight at me, but it has evolved to be whatever seems comfortable for the model.  Sometimes I ask them to look towards the side. I often wonder, does a portrait have a more "universal" quality when the subject is not looking directly at the viewer?  I see many contemporary portraits where the model is looking away, often down to the side. Does this give the viewer a feeling of calm or reverie?  Does this make it more comfortable for the viewer?

#51 Virginia- One Hundred Alla Prima Portraits of American Teenagers

                                                                             "Virginia"

Virginia is one of three triplets, the first set of triplets I have ever painted, or met.  I painted both of her brothers earlier in this project, and her mother wanted me to paint her, too.  Virginia has Autism, and was not able to sit for her portrait, so this painting was done from a photograph. I tried to paint her portrait in the same "Alla Prima"  manner in which I painted the others, even though I was looking at a monitor.  I have to admit, it was really fun to work from a computer.  Virginia's mother, Ann, is really dedicated to her children, and works very hard to provide Virginia with stimulating activities.  One day I called and they were finger painting. Ann has created a beautiful and welcoming home, and Virginia's environment is calm, organized, and provides her with everything she needs.  She was very cooperative when I went to photograph her, and understood what I wanted and communicated easily with her mom. Ann felt comfortable with me because I have a nephew with autism, and I have experienced some of what she is going through.  My nephew is 21 and non verbal, and his mom, my sister, is also very dedicated and understands what he needs. 

#50 Ritchie- One Hundred Alla Prima Portraits of American Teenagers

                                                                              "Ritchie"

(What do you think teenagers are really concerned about today?)  "Self-image.  Today's media puts so much importance on what teenagers should be we all try to live up to a manufactured image". (Advice for other teens) "If you don't change yourself you have no right to complain".


Ritchie did a great job posing, but I struggled with this painting. More importantly, I learned a hard lesson about myself.  Unfortunately, I said something clumsy and insensitive and made him feel bad.  I took a picture of him near the end of the session, and I couldn't figure out the right setting for the camera and complained out loud that I couldn't get a good picture.  His demeanor changed visibly after that, and when I asked him if he was okay, he said he didn't want to pose any more, and he was upset.  It turns out he thought I meant that I couldn't get a good picture because of the way he looked. I realized how insensitive I had been, and  apologized to him and explained that it wasn't him (he is a very nice looking young man), but it took a few minutes of us talking for him to not feel upset.  I can't blame him, that could have made anyone feel bad!  Here is a thoughtful statement from an email one of the painters working along with me sent me the following day, "It's one of those moments when I am acutely aware that these young people are walking a tight-rope between childhood and adulthood, and that as poised and graceful as they may be one moment, they still may need a steadying voice ... to help them regain their balance the next, lest they tumble..." 

#49 Eric - One Hundred Alla Prima Portraits of American Teenagers

                                                                              "Eric"
(...things that are important to you) "Listening to music, creating music, my friends, family, Hannah, exploring myself and the world." (Advice for other teens) "Give yourself plenty of room to grow.  Explore, because life is an adventure." (If you could do anything you wanted...) "I would watch a sunrise atop a mountain, spend a week at Camp Woodward, ride a bike across America."

I tried to paint with looser brushwork in this painting. Eric wore a tie-dyed t-shirt and was very laid back;  this helped me to loosen up, too. When I am really aware and sensitive, I can feel an energy field between myself and the model, and in the room. Everything seems to contribute to the experience; the music, the other painters, the day. In the silence of a Quaker meeting there is a similar experience that is  referred to as a "gathered meeting", when the energy is coalesced in the quiet room.  This was one of those days.  Its moments like this that make it all worth it. 

#48 Brazyl - One Hundred Alla Prima Portraits of American Teenagers

                                                                                 "Brazyl"  
(Advice for other teens) "Set goals - whether they are short term or long term!" (If you could do or be anything you wanted...) "I would be the director of the FBI and investigate human trafficking."

Brazyl was serious young woman, obviously concerned about the human condition.  She wants to attend Georgetown University, and major in international relations. She was wonderful to paint; the cool tones in the shadows on her skin contrasted beautifully with the warm tones in the lights.

 I decided to try making the image X-large this time.  Usually I make them large.  I am not sure, and I would love to get your feedback.  Happy New Year!