The "Frenchman"

This fellow went from Revolutionary War drummer to wild drummer to Frenchman within a month. He is very proud of his costumes, which are quite an investment, and earn him a place in reenactments, etc.

This was a three hour pose, so I just got as loose as I could. There are things not quite right about the eyes and bone structure of the head. But he looks very much the 18th century dandy, so I'm happy.

Trying some Fridays

I do not share a love of costumes. But in late January, the Revolutionary War drummer became his real drumming self dressed in normal clothes with some great colored lights. I loved what I saw the others were doing one Wednesday, and went for the pose the next two Friday sessions.

There was a spot on the floor right in front, so I took it. It gave me some great experience foreshortening the face. And the shadows on the ceiling were extra fun as well.

Death Valley

2008 started out with a 10 day painting trip in Death Valley with my artist friend, Melissa Harris. We joined Howard "Luke" Lucas and other artists and nature lovers from California for winter camping at Texas Spring Campground, painting, sketching and hiking.

I knew I would see stars.
I knew I would be good to unplug.
I knew I would feel closer to God.
I knew I would paint mountains better.

It all came true.