Tuesday, September 14, 2010

Self Portrait at 34, in progress


"Self Portrait at 34" in progress, shown at actual size

Here is a peek at a self portrait which I'm painting from photos I took myself with the self-timer setting of my camera at age 34. I'm wearing one of my all-time favorite wardrobe items, a black velvet cocktail dress, which makes it all the more fun to paint, and the tricky part will be to see if I can articulate in a pleasing way the details of the rhinestone necklace I was wearing. Haven't decided yet how I'll frame it, but an oval might be nice....we'll see.

10 comments:

Altoon Sultan said...

I love the expression in this portrait; along with the strong simple composition, it adds up to a dramatic painting.

Unknown said...

OOOOhhh - what a sultry self portrait Mona - I love this one - you look so mysterious, with a slight smile, almost like the Mona Lisa LOL!!!

Mona Diane Conner said...

Thanks Altoon and Karen. My last self-portrait was painted when I was just 19, before my miniature painting days.

Barbara A. Freeman said...

Oh la la, that IS a sultry expression and a very determined look as well. Great lighting.

Vern Schwarz said...

Wow Mona, look at you. Love the serious confident look, and the dramatic lighting.

Helen Read said...

This is great!! I love your dress too!

Mona Diane Conner said...

Thanks Helen. I've been making some progress this week, and hope to have another update soon on this and the 'After the Graduation' miniature.

Mona Diane Conner said...

Barbara and Vern, thanks! It's funny because when I took these pictures I had a painting or two in mind, but I think I'm actually enjoying painting this one more in retrospect than I would have at that time!

Debra Keirce said...

Mona, your expression is priceless in this piece...looks like you are ready to take on the world - or hurt someone trying to! Love it! And of course, technically you are spot on again. I love watching your pieces develop.

Clipping Path said...

wow! excellent work! I always like to read your blog post :)