As I’ve developed painting concepts for my upcoming solo exhibit, I’ve been focusing on painting the details of family photos. These close-ups show details I’ve added to the Ballerina and Snakes.

I’ve also painted part of myself out as the ballerina since I really don’t remember that recital. Just the dress.

I also started the focus painting that will greet each visitor to the gallery when thy enter the exhibit. It is Betsy again in this adorable sundress. She is just so cute in this photo as she runs toward you.

I begin with the painted mid-tone background and add a pencil sketch.

. . . and I then build on the painting, putting emphasis on the details of the sundress and the pearlescent beads on her socks.

I still have to work on her face and the parts of her that get painted away as some memory has faded.

My next painting is from a photo of Betsy with her Tupperware Easter Basket and bunny ears. How timely, since tomorrow is actually Easter. For inspiration, I guess I’ll go eat some of the chocolate Betsy just sent me. How appropriate since she is holding a piece of her Easter candy in the photo as if to offer it to me. I’ll be posting updates on this painting soon.