Tuesday, September 23, 2008

Tones and Reflections, 100cm x 80cm, oil on linen, 2008


This work was conceived about 2 years ago. My ever amazing model and friend Esta, has always wanted me to paint her. So one morning I went to sketch her at home and take pictures of her playing the the piano. After looking through all the pics the one that struck me most was the one that didn't actually show her expression but revealed it in her reflection in the mirror above the piano she was playing. I have know Esta for almost 10 years, so painting her was no difficulty but the keys and tones on the piano were a nightmare. But I think after 2 years of thinking, planning, delaying, postponing - I can now breathe some relief of it being finished. not sure really................might revisit!

4 comments:

Alice Thompson said...

This is a HUGE painting. Very unusual and difficult composition. It turned out wonderful! A unique modern portrait of a lady. This painting required so much work. I believe it is finished... although when I look at my own work I am always a little unsure myself ... especially with larger paintings. I can't see anything wrong with it, other than it missing your signature, but that could be because it is so small compared to the size of this painting. Bravo!

adebanji said...

Wow, I seem to enjoy your analysis of paintings- thanks!

I think I made a mistake in the dimensions. It is in cm not inches- I'll make ammends- its now I realize why you called it huge.

Making A Mark said...

I think this is really great! So good when you can see an aspect of people's lives and loves in paintings of them.

adebanji said...

Thanks Katherine!

She loves music and belongs to a family of musicians. The piano is the first thing that greets you welcome in this house of musicians.