We had a fantastic model today, a ballerina who stood perfectly still with her arms outstretched, holding onto a scarf. She had her weight just a little off center--but as often happens, I inadvertently "straightened her"... dang! It's a common problem.. painters must fight off that inner straightener. If we don't pay close enough attention we will straighten out anything that is not vertical. I pledge to establish any lean early next time! After my (failed) initial oil sketch of the over all pose I moved my easel to another location and painted her super-lovely face. I was more satisfied with this effort. One of the painters remarked during the session that our model looks a bit like Sargent's Madame X...another responded, "no way... Madame X was NOT good looking!" (I can see what painter #1 meant, but I agree with painter #2... our model seems prettier than Madame X).
Painting: Celeste Bergin, Prettier than Madame X, Oil on canvas panel, 16x20 inches. ©2010.
16 comments:
Lovely portrait.
Lucky you to have a ballerina to paint again! She looks pretty to me, like a young Madame X, or her daughter. Something to that comparison, though.
Nice sketch! I like it a lot.
She's quite lovely, as is the portrait you painted of her. I always found Madame X strikingly attractive with her sharp features and lovely white skin - so I consider painter #1 as having paid your model a huge compliment - and painter #2 as having expounded upon it (although I disagree with her assessment of Madame X).
-Don
it is very nice, lovely works
Beautiful model and a great rendition of her by a great artist. Forget the talk of ego you are a wonderful caring person. Thank you
You've captured so beautifully the fine bones in her lovely face, Celeste! Stunning piece! Now I have to go look up Madame X though...I haven't a clue! And my dear, you are merely able to be my older sister; I don't have one so you fit the bill nicely!! LOLOL
Interesting comparison to Madame X. I didn't think of it until you mentioned it. I actually first thought of Audrey Hepburn with that graceful neck and regal posture. Nice job, Celeste!
My first impression also was "Madame X!" There's a very strong similarity and coyness. I really like the way you use color - the chartreuse in the upper left is a great and unexpected addition to this painting. Nice work!!
How fortunate to have such a beautiful ballerina to pose!! She is lovely and your portrait is, too.
Great title. You always seem to capture the essence and make it seem effortless. You are a true artist.
I love your strokes...free and colourful!
great job! glad you decided to take on another aspect and paint her....so very pretty!
ciao bella
creative carmelina
You know, this is a perfect example of how clean spots of color (including the best backround) make a portrait, and make it feel alive. Good Job!
I love her expression, with its bit of a smirk. Funny enough my favorite part is the hair and the way you let the background show through in the middle. It's a great example of less being more.
Very nice, by the way!
So maybe she's Madame Y...?
I see the similarity to X, but your model has such poise and bearing, dignity, and you captured it so beautifully!
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